The first day of the highly anticipated Test series between India and England delivered a captivating display of cricketing prowess, marked by Rishabh Pant’s characteristic audacity, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s sublime century, and a masterful unbeaten ton from new Test captain Shubman Gill. As stumps drew near, India stood firmly in command at 359 for 3, leaving England with much to ponder after a long day in the field.
England captain Ben Stokes’ decision to bowl first on what proved to be a good batting surface quickly backfired as India’s top order capitalised. The opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided a solid start, stitching together a vital 91-run partnership. Rahul, looking composed, contributed 42 runs before falling to Brydon Carse. Debutant Sai Sudharsan, unfortunately, endured a brief stay, departing for a duck, leaving India at 92 for 2 at lunch.
Stokes Priceless Reaction
However, the afternoon and evening sessions belonged entirely to India. From the moment he strode to the crease, Rishabh Pant, the enigmatic wicketkeeper-batsman, wasted no time in making his presence felt. In a move that left spectators and even opposition captain Ben Stokes reacting with a mix of awe and disbelief, Pant smashed his second ball for a blistering boundary.
The audacious stroke, a testament to his unique, high-risk, high-reward approach, also saw Pant cross the 3000-run mark in Test cricket, a significant milestone in his career. Fans are already buzzing on social media, with “Rishabh Pant boundary” and “Ben Stokes reaction” trending.
Pant hits down the ground and the reaction of Ben Stokes says it all 🥶 #INDvsENG #INDvsENGTestpic.twitter.com/MhzMG1PPlb
— Manmohan (@GarhManmohan) June 20, 2025
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Brilliant Century
The undisputed star of the day, however, was young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal. The prodigious opener showcased a maturity beyond his years, crafting a magnificent fifth Test century (101 runs). Unlike some of his previous innings, Jaiswal demonstrated remarkable restraint, patiently building his innings and rectifying past mistakes to play a truly chanceless knock. His innings was a blend of elegant drives and powerful cuts, frustrating the English bowlers throughout the day.
Shubman Gill Scored a Ton on His Captaincy Debut
But the day’s biggest cheer was reserved for Shubman Gill, who, in his maiden outing as India’s Test captain, rose to the occasion with an unbeaten 127 runs. Gill’s innings was a blend of composure and class, as he deftly handled the English attack, hitting 16 fours and a six. His century on captaincy debut places him in an elite club of Indian captains to achieve such a feat. Gill and Jaiswal forged a crucial 129-run partnership for the third wicket, completely shifting the momentum in India’s favour.
Following Jaiswal’s dismissal by Ben Stokes (who picked up 2 wickets along with Brydon Carse’s 1), Pant joined his captain, and the duo put on an unbroken 138-run stand for the fourth wicket by stumps. Their partnership ensured India finished Day 1 on a dominant note, showcasing both aggressive intent and solid defence.
England’s bowlers, including Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue, largely struggled to make consistent inroads on a pitch that offered little assistance, leaving Ben Stokes with much to strategise for Day 2. With such a strong start, India will be looking to build a massive first-innings total and put England under immense pressure as the series progresses. Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting to see the play on day 2.
India vs England 1st Test Day 1: India’s dominance is evident, especially after England won the toss and chose to bat.