Leeds, England – The much-anticipated five-match Test series between India and England kicked off with a blockbuster at Headingley, Leeds, where England chased down a mammoth 371-run target to defeat India by five wickets in the opening Test of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–2027 cycle.
It was a performance of sheer intent and resilience from the English side, who now lead the series 1-0, while India is left to regroup and reflect after a bruising defeat.
Ben Duckett’s Masterclass Seals Historic Chase
England’s hero of the moment was Ben Duckett, who crafted a sensational 149-run innings off just 170 balls, peppered with 21 boundaries and a six. His aggressive approach ensured that England maintained a commanding run rate throughout the final innings.
Supporting Duckett at the crease were Joe Root (53)* and *Jamie Smith (44)**, who together ensured England crossed the line with 84 balls remaining, making it one of the most memorable chases in Test cricket history.
🇮🇳 Indian Bowlers Falter Under Pressure
Despite having a strong total to defend, the Indian bowling attack lacked bite on the final day. Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur picked up two wickets each, but neither spin nor pace could curb England’s momentum. Jasprit Bumrah, who was outstanding in the first innings with 5/83, remained wicketless in the fourth innings.
The defeat will raise serious questions about India’s ability to bowl out sides in pressure situations—an issue they must address quickly before the second Test.
WTC 2025–27: England Rise to the Top
With this victory, England bagged 12 points and climbed to the top of the WTC standings with a perfect 100% PCT (Points Percentage). India, having lost their opening game, sits at the bottom with 0 points.
ICC World Test Championship 2025–2027 – Points Table (After 1st Test)
| Position | Team | Matches | Wins | Losses | Draws | Points | PCT (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | England | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 100.000 |
| 2 | Bangladesh | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 33.330 |
| 3 | Sri Lanka | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 33.330 |
| 4 | India | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.000 |
WTC: The Ultimate Test Arena
Launched in 2019, the ICC World Test Championship has brought meaning, structure, and global appeal to Test cricket. The current 2025–2027 cycle marks the fourth edition and features nine top Test-playing nations: India, England, Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and West Indies.
- 12 points are awarded for every win
- 6 points for a tie
- 4 points for a draw
- Teams are ranked based on percentage of points won (PCT), not just total points
South Africa are the defending champions, having lifted the trophy at Lord’s after defeating Australia in the 2023 WTC Final.
Match Summary – 1st Test, Headingley
- India 1st Innings: 471
- Shubman Gill – 147
- Rishabh Pant – 134
- Ben Stokes – 4/66
- Josh Tongue – 4/86
- England 1st Innings: 465
- Ollie Pope – 106
- Harry Brook – 99
- Jasprit Bumrah – 5/83
- Prasidh Krishna – 3/128
- India 2nd Innings: 364
- KL Rahul – 137*
- Rishabh Pant – 118
- Josh Tongue – 3/72
- Brydon Carse – 3/80
- England 2nd Innings: 373/5
- Ben Duckett – 149
- Joe Root – 53*
- Jamie Smith – 44*
- Shardul Thakur – 2/51
- Prasidh Krishna – 2/92
Result: England won by 5 wickets
Toss: England elected to bowl
Venue: Headingley, Leeds
What Lies Ahead for India
After a crushing defeat, Team India has little time to dwell. The second Test could be their redemption opportunity, but for that, they must find sharper strategies, especially in bowling and field placements on final days.
For England, this win will serve as a major confidence booster in both the series and their World Test Championship campaign.
