Day one of the first Test between England and India at Headingley has firmly swung in favour of the tourists, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill dominating the home side's bowling attack and notching up impressive centuries. India ended the day in a commanding position with a score of 359 for 3.
The day began with England winning the toss and electing to bowl, under clear skies and what appeared to be a green-tinged pitch. This series also marks the start of the World Test Championship cycle of 2025-2027 for India. With Shubman Gill captaining India for the first time in Tests, the team also handed a debut to Sai Sudharsan.
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his rich vein of form, becoming the fifth Indian to score a century in his first Test innings in England, joining an elite list of Indian batsmen. The 23-year-old opener reached his fifth Test hundred in just 144 balls, decorated with 16 boundaries and a six. Jaiswal's innings was a blend of aggression and maturity. After an initial flurry of boundaries, he settled into a rhythm, respecting the conditions and building a solid foundation. He showcased excellent shot selection and temperament, punishing the loose deliveries while remaining watchful against the tighter lines.
Shubman Gill, leading the side in his first Test as captain, also rose to the occasion with a remarkable century. Gill became only the fourth Indian to achieve this feat. Walking in after the dismissal of KL Rahul, Gill steadied the innings with Jaiswal, forming a vital partnership. Gill's innings was a masterclass in composure and elegance. He combined solid defence with exquisite strokeplay, driving the ball with authority and rotating the strike effectively. His footwork against both pace and spin was exemplary, and he looked completely at ease in the leadership role. Gill brought up his fastest Test fifty off just 56 balls, highlighting his intent to keep the scoreboard moving.
The partnership between Jaiswal and Gill was the cornerstone of India's dominant performance. They added 129 runs, frustrating the English bowlers and taking the game away from them. Their contrasting styles complemented each other perfectly, with Jaiswal providing the aggression and Gill offering stability and control.
England's bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batsmen. Brydon Carse, Ben Stokes and Josh Tongue picked up a wicket each. The English bowlers lacked consistency and failed to build sustained pressure.
Towards the end of the day, Rishabh Pant joined Gill and continued the onslaught, scoring a brisk 65* to further consolidate India's position. Pant's aggressive approach put the English bowlers on the back foot, and he played some audacious shots to keep the momentum firmly with India.
At stumps, India were 359 for 3, with Gill unbeaten on 127 and Pant on 65. India dominated a wayward England attack. The strong batting performance has placed India in a very strong position in the Test match.
