Leeds, England – India’s formidable first innings in the opening Test against England at Headingley concluded on Day 2, Saturday, June 21, 2025, as they were bowled out for a substantial total of 471. The innings was highlighted by magnificent centuries from three of their top-order and middle-order batsmen, laying a strong foundation before a late collapse.
Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front with a commanding 147, while vice-captain Rishabh Pant showcased his explosive talent with a belligerent 134. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal set the tone early, also reaching a milestone with a well-compiled 101. These three centurions were the bedrock of India’s innings, dominating the English bowling attack for large periods on the first day and the early part of the second.
Early Momentum and Jaiswal’s Hundred
The innings began promisingly for India. The opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul (42) provided a solid platform, stitching together a vital 91-run partnership. Jaiswal, demonstrating composure and flair, brought up his century off 159 balls. His innings was punctuated by powerful strokes, including 16 fours and a solitary six, signaling his intent and class at the top of the order in this crucial series opener at Leeds.
Gill and Pant’s Defining Partnership
Following the early partnerships, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant combined forces to build the most significant stand of the innings. Their fourth-wicket alliance yielded a staggering 209 runs, putting India firmly in control. Gill anchored the innings with patience and precision, crafting his 147 runs over 227 deliveries, featuring 19 fours and a six. His innings provided stability and allowed Pant to play his natural attacking game.
Pant’s Record-Breaking Assault
Rishabh Pant continued his reputation as one of the most exciting players in Test cricket. His aggressive approach was evident in his rapid-fire 134 off just 178 balls. Pant’s innings was a spectacle of power-hitting, laced with 12 boundaries and an impressive six sixes. This innings was particularly significant as it marked his seventh Test century, the most by an Indian wicketkeeper-batter in the history of the longest format of the game, surpassing previous records and cementing his place as a vital component of the Indian middle order.
Day 2 Collapse Undermines Strong Start
Despite the heroics of the centurions, India’s innings experienced a notable collapse on Day 2. Resuming the day at a commanding position of 359 for three wickets, the visitors lost their remaining seven wickets for the addition of only 112 runs. This period saw England’s bowlers find renewed energy and effectiveness, exploiting the conditions and applying pressure on the lower order.
England Bowlers Fight Back
The English bowling attack, despite being put under severe pressure on Day 1 by the Indian top order, fought back admirably on the second morning. Leading the charge were captain Ben Stokes and pacer Josh Tongue. Stokes finished with figures of 4 wickets for 66 runs (4/66), utilizing subtle variations and control. Tongue was equally impressive, claiming 4 wickets for 86 runs (4/86). Their efforts were instrumental in restricting India to under the 500-run mark, preventing them from building an even more imposing total on a Headingley pitch that offered assistance at times.
India’s total of 471 sets up a significant challenge for England in their first innings. While the Indian batting display showcased individual brilliance and strong partnerships, the Day 2 collapse will be a point of reflection for the team management. The focus now shifts to the Indian bowlers as they look to capitalize on the substantial first-innings lead and put England under pressure in this crucial opening encounter of the series.
