India made a dominant start to their five-Test series against England with a commanding 359 for 3 on the opening day at Headingley, led by standout centuries from new captain Shubman Gill and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite wanting to bowl first, India was put in to bat and made the most of favorable conditions, beginning a new era without Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, or Ravichandran Ashwin in emphatic fashion.
Gill, in his first Test as captain, remained unbeaten on 127 — his sixth Test century and his first outside Asia. Jaiswal, who scored 101, became the first Asian opener to hit a Test hundred at Headingley. The pair batted with authority, composure, and technical excellence, providing stability and flair to a refreshed Indian lineup.
England’s decision to bowl first, influenced by the green tinge on the pitch and historical trends at Headingley, misfired. The bowlers found little movement and lacked consistency, managing to hit ideal areas only 35% of the time in the first hour — their second-worst showing at home in six years. Ben Stokes, playing just his second match of the year, was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 43.
India’s openers took full advantage of the wayward bowling early on. Jaiswal and KL Rahul added 84 for the first wicket, with Rahul falling for 42 shortly before lunch. Debutant Sai Sudharsan lasted only five balls before being dismissed by Stokes, but Gill and Jaiswal steadied the innings in a fluent, wicketless second session.
Jaiswal showed great resolve, even as he battled hand cramps while in the 80s. He reached his hundred with a flurry of boundaries and a six, but was bowled by a sharp Stokes delivery for 101 just after tea. Reflecting on his innings, Jaiswal said, “It did swing, but I focused on my process. Gill was amazing to watch — so calm and composed.”
Vice-captain Rishabh Pant joined Gill and began cautiously before accelerating as the bowlers tired. Gill reached his century off 140 balls and later cleared the boundary to surpass 2,000 career Test runs. Pant brought up his 22nd Test fifty and crossed 3,000 runs, ending the day on 65 not out.
As India closed on 359 for 3, they not only took control of the match but also sent a clear message that the next generation is ready to lead from the front.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
