India stamped their authority on the opening day of the first Test against England, ending on a commanding 359 for 3 at Headingley. Centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal (101) and Shubman Gill (127 not out) set the tone for a dominant performance, as England’s decision to bowl first backfired under clear skies and on a fast outfield.
It was a significant day for Gill, captaining India for the first time in a Test match, and his leadership was underscored by a calm, composed hundred. His innings, full of timing and composure, made a strong statement in the absence of veterans like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. At the other end, vice-captain Rishabh Pant provided fireworks, remaining unbeaten on 65 in a brisk 138-run partnership with Gill that demoralized the hosts late in the day.
Jaiswal, who had tormented England during their previous tour of India, continued his dominance. The 23-year-old left-hander crafted his innings with a mix of discipline and flair, reaching his century with a mix of powerful cuts and elegant drives. His milestone, achieved despite suffering from cramp, marked his fifth Test hundred and made him the first Asian opener to score a century at Headingley.
England, having opted to field first, endured a frustrating day. While the strategy may have been influenced by recent Headingley history where bowling first has often yielded wins the execution fell flat. Chris Woakes failed to lead the attack effectively, Brydon Carse managed a solitary breakthrough by dismissing KL Rahul, and debutant Josh Tongue lacked consistency. Surprisingly, it was Ben Stokes, fresh off injury concerns, who emerged as the most threatening bowler, claiming two wickets and delivering with purpose.
Shoaib Bashir, England’s young off-spinner, was perhaps the most economical, bowling 21 overs at 3.1 runs per over and performing a holding role many doubted he could manage. But containment wasn’t enough to halt India’s momentum.
The match began with promise for England after removing both openers before lunch, including debutant Sai Sudharsan for a duck. However, missed opportunities a no-ball saving Jaiswal from an LBW dismissal and a failed run-out chance against Gill on 1 proved costly.
By stumps, India had thoroughly taken control, answering questions about their squad depth with authority. Their commanding display signaled not just the start of the series but their intent to dominate. With Gill and Pant set to resume on day two and plenty of batting still to come, England face a stiff challenge to claw their way back into the contest.
