Edgbaston, Birmingham: India’s young captain, Shubman Gill, led from the front with a masterful, unbeaten century (114*) on Day 1 of the second Test against England, guiding his team to a solid 310/5 at stumps. Gill’s calm and composed knock proved the cornerstone of India’s innings, especially after early wickets threatened to put the visitors in trouble.
Key Highlights:
- Shubman Gill’s Century: Shubman Gill’s 114* was a display of maturity and unwavering focus, marking his second consecutive century in the series and his first assignment as Test captain. His innings, coming off 216 balls, steadied the ship when India lost quick wickets.
- Jaiswal’s Fluent 87: Opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a fiery start, looking set for a big score before falling for a fluent 87. His aggressive approach helped India build momentum in the early sessions.
- England’s Early Strikes: Chris Woakes was the pick of the English bowlers, claiming two crucial wickets, including that of KL Rahul early in the day. Ben Stokes also chipped in with a wicket, dismissing Jaiswal.
After England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bowl on a pitch that offered a hint of movement early on, India lost opener KL Rahul cheaply. However, Yashasvi Jaiswal, fresh off a century in the first Test, continued his impressive form. He played with freedom, finding the boundaries regularly and putting the English bowlers under pressure. Jaiswal’s knock of 87, filled with elegant strokes, was vital in setting a strong platform for India.
But the real story of the day belonged to Shubman Gill. Walking in at number four, Gill showcased exceptional temperament. He weathered the early storm, building crucial partnerships and demonstrating a remarkable ability to keep the scoreboard ticking even as partners around him, including Karun Nair (31) and Rishabh Pant (25), fell.
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Shubman Gill’s Century: Captain’s Knock Under Pressure
Shubman Gill’s Century was not just about the runs; it was a captain’s innings, leading by example and instilling confidence in the dressing room. He became the first Indian batter to score a hundred on Day 1 of a Test in England twice, a testament to his growing prowess in overseas conditions.
Towards the end of the day, Gill found a strong ally in veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on a gritty 41. Their unbroken 99-run partnership ensured India ended the day in a commanding position, recovering from a tricky phase where they were 211/5.
🚨 16 INTERNATIONAL HUNDREDS FOR SHUBMAN GILL 🥶 pic.twitter.com/BItqkuj88p
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 2, 2025
Former Players Heap Praise on Gill’s Captain’s Knock
The cricketing world has lauded Shubman Gill’s unbeaten century and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s aggressive 87 on Day 1 of the second Test, with former players taking to social media and broadcasting platforms to express their admiration for the young Indian batsmen.
Harbhajan Singh, the legendary Indian off-spinner, was quick to commend Gill’s performance. He tweeted, “Shera @ShubmanGill brilliant knock kaptaaan sahb ❤️❤️♠️???????? #ENGvsIND,” clearly impressed with the captain’s effort.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan echoed the sentiment, writing, “Well done Captain Saab. Top level innings from Captain Shubman Gill. High class.” This highlights the quality and significance of Gill’s century in steadying the Indian innings.
Another former India batsman, Mohammad Kaif, drew parallels to a rich Indian cricketing tradition. “Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli and now Shubman Gill… India is always blessed to have a solid world class batsman at No. 4. Maybe this continue forever. Gill continuing a great tradition.” This speaks volumes about the impact Gill’s innings had and the high regard he’s now held in.
Wasim Jaffer, known for his witty takes on cricket, pointed out the added pressure on Gill. “Being India’s number 4 and Test captain comes with a different pressure altogether. Really good to see it has not affected his batting one bit, in fact it’s elevated it. Well played @ShubmanGill???????? #ENGvIND.” This acknowledges Gill’s ability to thrive under the immense responsibility of captaincy.
Celebrated commentator and pundit Harsha Bhogle highlighted Gill’s remarkable consistency and adaptability. “Back to back centuries for Shubman Gill. Very impressive. Incredible that his control percentage has been 96. He has taken to no 4 like a fish to water.” He also noted that this was Gill’s slowest century, emphasizing the patience and temperament displayed.
Anjum Chopra, former India women’s captain, simply praised his consistency, stating, “Consistency! From Shubman Gill. Well batted Captain #TeamIndia #ENGvsIND. 2nd #TestMatch.”
Cricketwallah (Ayaz Memon), a veteran cricket writer, also chimed in, “Gill living up to expectations. Fantastic century. Second in two matches shows steep upward curve in form and maturity. India reasonably well placed thanks to Gill’s partnership with Jadeja but need to bat till lunch tomorrow – or beyond – to be in s dominant position.”
What’s Next:
India will look to build on this strong foundation on Day 2, with Gill and Jadeja aiming to bat deep and post a formidable total. England, despite some good bowling spells, will be eager for early breakthroughs to expose India’s lower order. The stage is set for an exciting second day of Test cricket at Edgbaston.