Despite the earlier challenges posed by the spinners to England’s batters, Jaiswal’s aggressive fifty, unbeaten at 76 (70 balls, 9×4, 3×6), and Shubman Gill’s presence at 14 not out put India at a deficit of 127 runs from England’s first-innings total of 246.
AS IT HAPPENED: IND vs ENG, 1st Test, Day 1
England’s struggles were evident as the spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin (3/68), Ravindra Jadeja (3/88), and Axar Patel (2/33) dismantled their batting lineup. Captain Ben Stokes anchored the innings with a resilient 70, but the rest succumbed to the challenges of the Indian pitch.
When India came to bat, the pitch seemed less challenging for the openers, and Jaiswal took full advantage, crafting a brilliant innings. Partnered with Rohit Sharma (24), he aggressively attacked the England bowlers, particularly Tom Hartley, hitting two sixes in the left-arm spinner’s first over.
The partnership of Jaiswal and Rohit yielded 80 runs in just 12.1 overs, setting a strong foundation for India. Rohit’s dismissal by Jack Leach did little to hinder the hosts’ progress, as the English bowlers struggled to make an impact.
The day saw contrasting performances, with England’s spinners finding it tough against Jaiswal’s aggressive approach, while India’s spinners created significant challenges for the English batters. Joe Root (29) and Jonny Bairstow (37) showed resistance briefly, but the fall of wickets in the post-lunch session left England in a precarious position.
Ben Stokes fought a lone battle, playing a mix of conventional and unconventional sweeps, but his efforts could only add modest respectability to England’s total. Despite Stokes’ impressive innings of 70, India maintained control, with England losing five wickets for 107 runs in one session.
Stokes eventually fell to Jasprit Bumrah, and England’s innings concluded with a total of 246. The day highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two teams, with India firmly in control as they look to capitalize on their dominant position in the Test.