A new era dawned for Indian cricket at Headingley, Leeds, as Shubman Gill, in his debut as Test captain, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, orchestrated a batting masterclass against England on the first day of the opening Test. Their centuries propelled India to a commanding 359 for 3 at stumps, leaving the English bowlers searching for answers.
Gill's innings was a blend of elegance and authority. Walking in after the early dismissal of KL Rahul, he steadied the ship with Jaiswal, forming a formidable 129-run partnership. Gill reached his century in 140 balls, decorated with 14 boundaries. At 25 years and 285 days, Gill also became the youngest Indian to score a fifty on Test captaincy debut. Gill has joined the elite list of Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar and Virat Kohli to score a century on his debut as captain.
Jaiswal, ever the aggressor, complemented Gill's composure with his trademark flair. He became the fifth Indian batter to score a Test century in his maiden innings in England. Together, they dominated the second session, adding 123 runs without losing a wicket.
England's decision to bowl first after winning the toss seemed to backfire as the Indian openers started strongly, adding 91 runs before Brydon Carse removed KL Rahul. Ben Stokes then dismissed Sai Sudharsan for a duck just before lunch, but that was the last of England's success for a long time.
The Gill-Jaiswal partnership frustrated the English bowlers, who struggled to find any rhythm or penetration. Gill's composed strokeplay and Jaiswal's aggressive hitting kept the scoreboard ticking, putting immense pressure on the home side.
As the day progressed, the pitch eased out, making batting even more comfortable. Gill and Jaiswal capitalised on the conditions, dispatching anything loose to the boundary. The Headingley crowd witnessed a batting masterclass from the two young Indian stars.
While Jaiswal departed after scoring a well-deserved century, Gill continued his innings, remaining unbeaten on 127 at the close of play. He was accompanied by Rishabh Pant, who looked in great touch and was unbeaten on 65, signaling a promising return to form. Their unbroken partnership further consolidated India's position.
The day undoubtedly belonged to India. The twin centuries from Gill and Jaiswal not only put their team in a commanding position but also signaled a bright future for Indian cricket under Gill's leadership. England will need to regroup and come up with a much-improved performance on the second day to claw their way back into the match.
