The first Test of the five-match series between India and England is currently underway at Headingley, Leeds. The match, which began on June 20, 2025, marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle for both teams. After three days of intense cricket, the game hangs in the balance.
England won the toss and elected to field first, a decision influenced by the favorable bowling conditions typically found at Headingley. India, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, making his debut as captain, posted a total of 471 in their first innings. Gill himself made a significant contribution, scoring 147. KL Rahul also added a valuable 47 before being dropped at gully, while Rishabh Pant contributed a quickfire innings, albeit with some risky shots that drew a warning from Rahul.
In response, England were bowled out for 465. Ollie Pope's century and Harry Brook's 99 were the highlights of the innings. Jasprit Bumrah was the star performer for India, taking 5 wickets for 83 runs. Prasidh Krishna picked up 3 wickets, while Mohammed Siraj chipped in with 2.
Bumrah's performance was particularly noteworthy as it saw him achieve several milestones. He became the first Asian fast bowler to take 150 Test wickets in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). This was his 14th five-wicket haul in his Test career, and his third in England, setting a new record for most Test five-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler in England. He also equaled Ravichandran Ashwin's record for the most five-wicket hauls in the World Test Championship.
India started their second innings cautiously but lost Yashasvi Jaiswal early. Sai Sudharsan looked good before being dismissed by Ben Stokes. At the close of play on Day 3, India were 90 for 2, with a lead of 96 runs. KL Rahul (47) and Shubman Gill (6) were at the crease.
Day 4 began with India looking to build on their lead. However, Gill was dismissed early, adding to the drama. Play was eventually called off early due to rain. The match is intriguingly poised.
The match has not been without its controversial moments. Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped a number of catches, including those of Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook, while Rishabh Pant also misjudged a catch. There were also some questionable decisions, with England losing a review for YBK Jaiswal.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how both teams adapt to the conditions and the strategies they employ. The form of key players like Bumrah, Gill, Pope, and Brook will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series. With crucial WTC points at stake, both teams will be eager to start the series on a winning note.
