Leeds, June 21: India’s first innings in the opening Test against England at Headingley ended at 471 runs on Day 2, after a promising start was cut short by a sudden lower-order collapse. The Indian batting lineup, led by centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), captain Shubman Gill (147), and Rishabh Pant (134), dominated the first half but lost 7 wickets for just 41 runs after reaching 430 for 3.
England won the toss and elected to bowl, a decision that initially appeared to backfire as Indian batters put up a commanding display. However, the innings crumbled after Gill’s dismissal, exposing the lower order.
Rishabh Pant Breaks MS Dhoni’s Record
Rishabh Pant delivered a sensational knock, reaching his century in 146 balls with 10 fours and 4 sixes. His aggressive stroke play kept the scoreboard ticking and left the English bowlers under pressure. With this ton, Pant overtook MS Dhoni’s record to become the first Indian wicketkeeper to score 7 Test centuries. It was also his fourth Test hundred against England.
Pant now stands joint-third among wicketkeepers with the most overseas Test centuries a feat that highlights his growing stature in red-ball cricket. His innings at Leeds was a mix of explosive intent and mature shot selection, showcasing his confidence and form on foreign soil.
Shubman Gill Scores Sixth Test Century in Captaincy Debut
Shubman Gill, leading the Indian Test side for the first time, marked the occasion with a fine century. Batting at No. 4 following the retirement of Virat Kohli, Gill played with elegance and control, reaching his sixth Test hundred on the opening day. His performance under pressure sets a strong foundation for his leadership tenure.
India now shifts focus to the bowling unit as they aim to capitalize on the strong total and put England under pressure in their first innings.
