Outstanding centuries from Jaiswal and Gill gives India a commanding edge early on at Headingley.

On a glorious Friday at Headinley, India took control and stamped its authority in the first test IND vs ENG. Mainly because of the outstanding centuries of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. Their combined 100s lead India to commanding 359 for 3 by the end of the day. What an amazingl start to the Test series. Leaving England in a tough spot after Ben Stokes gambled to bowl first on what turned out to be a surprisingly good batting pitch backfired.

Credit: TOI

Gill’s Captaincy Debut on Display

At 25, Indian Test captain Shubman Gill took the reins from Rohit Sharma with high expectations surrounding his leadership, but he responded with calm authority and elegant stroke play. His footwork was sharp, timing was crisp, and his confidence was evidant as he adapted smoothly to headinly pitch.

Gill built a vital 129 runs partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal steadying India's innings and halted England's attempts to regain control. Gill completed fifty runs in just 56 balls–his fastest fifty in Test cricket. As he moved towards his century he showed maturity - tightened his technique, remained calm and disciplined, and punished poor deliveries with precision.

His unbeaten 127 off 169 balls, featuring 16 fours and a six, was his sixth Test century and his first outside Asia, a significant milestone. His calm celebration reflected his inner satisfaction. From stylish cover drives to wristy flicks, Gill looked in total control. It was a captain’s innings measured, confident, and a clear sign that he’s ready for the responsibility of leading India on the big stage.

In England, Jaiswal Finds His Rythem

Yashasvi Jaiswal, a talented left hand batsman, showcased remarkable composure as he adapted to all swinging conditions in England. After previous Test centuries in the West Indies and massive scores against England at home, he brought that experience and confidence to Headingley. His early defense was solid and he timed his drives well.

Jaiswal brought his 50 in 93 balls, showing off his maturity and adaptibility. Despite struggling with forearm cramps he remained composed and focused and went on to score 101 from 159 deliveries including 16 boundaries and a six.

He shared a very vital 93 run partnership with KL Rahul giving India a firm base. Although a brief collapse followed Rahul’s dismissal, Jaiswal didn’t let the momentum slip. He regained control guiding the innings calmly.

This innings wasn’t just about runs, it showcased Jaiswal's ability to remain calm under pressure, adjusting to new conditions and taking responsibility.

Pant’s Return Boosts India’s Depth

Rishabh Pant walked in after Ben Stokes dismissed Jaiswal and formed a steady partnership with Shubman Gill. Blending his natural aggression with controlled shot selection, Pant showed patience and maturity at the crease. He remained unbeaten on 65 off 102 balls, striking six boundaries and finishing with a confident six.

Credit: TOI

His composed knocks not only put India into a dominant position by stumps but he also marked a personal milestone completing 3000 runs in Test cricket. Pant showed great adaptability, steadying the innings and giving India’s middle order the strength and balance it needed.

England’s Toil

Englands bowlers had a tough day but managed to find a little help from the pitch. With only Stokes taking a lone wicket the rest Woakes, Tongue, and Carse lacked rhythm and struggled to maintain pressure. Opting to bowl first was a very pricey decision, as the pitch played in the support of Indian batters. Despite a few determined efforts, the bowlers couldn’t find the edge or consistency needed to make a real impact.

A Closer Look at the Key Moments and Turning Points From the Second Day of Play

India dominated Day 1, finishing strong at 359 for 3, thanks to impressive knocks from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. With good middled order batters still to come, India remains firmly in control of the match. England faces a tough task on Day 2 and will need quick wickets early on to regain any momentum. Gill’s performance signals the start of what could be a defining chapter in his career—he batted with real intent and confidence, making a clear statement. The pressure is now squarely on England to respond before the game slips further away.