Team India got off to a commanding start in the first Test of the five-match series against England in Leeds, as Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s centuries powered the visitors to 359/3 at stumps on Day 1 at Headingley Carnegie Stadium. After being put into bat by England skipper Ben Stokes, India’s top order responded with a near-flawless batting performance in the new ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle opener.
England Win Toss, India Win the Day
England opted to bowl first on a green-tinged surface, expecting early seam movement. However, their plans were swiftly derailed by the resilience and class of India’s young batting unit.
After the early dismissals of KL Rahul (42) and debutant Sai Sudharsan (0), India recovered beautifully thanks to a record-setting stand between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.
Jaiswal’s Century Sets the Tone
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his sensational red-ball form with a gritty 101 off 158 balls, hitting 16 boundaries and a six. He brought up his century in style before falling to Ben Stokes shortly after. His innings set the foundation for India’s imposing first-day total.
Captain Gill Leads from the Front
Captain Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 127 off 175 balls at stumps. Displaying calm authority, Gill mixed caution with aggression, striking 16 fours and a six, anchoring India’s innings with composure and maturity. His captaincy debut in the Test arena has started on a stellar note.
Pant Brings the Fire
Joining Gill after Jaiswal’s dismissal, Rishabh Pant added flair and momentum in the final session. He remained not out on 65 from 102 balls, lacing his innings with 6 fours and 2 sixes, and putting pressure back on the bowlers with his trademark counterattacking style.
England Bowlers Struggle
England’s bowling attack looked largely ineffective on a batting-friendly track. Only Ben Stokes (2/43) and Brydon Carse (1/70) managed to make breakthroughs, while frontline bowlers like Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir went wicketless despite long spells.
Notably, debutant spinner Shoaib Bashir impressed with tight lines, conceding just 66 runs in 21 overs, but couldn’t claim a wicket.
Score Summary – Day 1
India 1st Innings – 359/3 (85 Overs)
- Shubman Gill (C): 127* (175)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: 101 (158)
- Rishabh Pant (WK): 65* (102)
- KL Rahul: 42 (78)
- Sai Sudharsan: 0 (4)
- Extras: 24 (NB 7, W 1, B 1, LB 10, P 5)
Fall of Wickets:
- 91/1 (KL Rahul, 24.5 ov)
- 92/2 (Sai Sudharsan, 25.4 ov)
- 221/3 (Yashasvi Jaiswal, 52.3 ov)
England Bowling:
- Ben Stokes: 13-1-43-2
- Brydon Carse: 16-5-70-1
- Chris Woakes: 19-2-89-0
- Josh Tongue: 16-0-75-0
- Shoaib Bashir: 21-4-66-0
