A new era for Indian Test cricket began on a promising note as openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul stitched together a solid opening partnership on the first day of the first Test against England at Headingley. At the time of reporting, India had reached 57 for no loss in 18.4 overs, successfully navigating the early challenges after being put in to bat by England captain Ben Stokes.
The five-match series marks a significant transition for the Indian team, with Shubman Gill taking over the captaincy from the recently retired Rohit Sharma. The side is also without the services of the stalwart batsman Virat Kohli, who also bid adieu to the longest format of the game.
Earlier in the day, Stokes won the toss and had no hesitation in opting to bowl first under overcast skies. India handed a debut to top-order batsman Sai Sudharsan, who was presented with his Test cap by veteran Cheteshwar Pujara.
Jaiswal, looking in fine touch, was the more aggressive of the two openers, finding the boundary with regularity. Rahul, at the other end, provided steady support, cautiously seeing off the new ball. The England bowlers, led by Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue, toiled hard but were unable to make a breakthrough in the morning session.
The series is poised to be an intriguing contest between two teams in different phases of their evolution. While England will be looking to continue their aggressive "Bazball" approach at home, the young Indian side under Gill will be eager to prove their mettle in challenging English conditions.
Brief Scores:
India 1st Innings: 57/0 in 18.4 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 30, KL Rahul 25*) vs England
The remainder of the five-match series will be played at Edgbaston, Lord's, Old Trafford, and The Oval.
