India displayed a versatile batting approach as they progressed in their bid to outplay England in the first Test on Friday, January 26. Yashavi Jaiswal’s entertaining innings of 76 set the tone on the opening day, while India, adjusting to a turning and slowing pitch at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, opted for a more traditional batting style.
Yashavi Jaiswal added only 4 runs to his overnight score, but KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja contributed fifty-plus scores. Supported by Shreyas Iyer (35), wicketkeeper Srikar Bharat (41), and Axar Patel (35 not out), India reached Stumps at 421 for 7, leading England’s first innings total by 175 runs.
Although some considered England’s 246 a competitive total, India’s aggressive approach on Day 1 seemed calculated to amass runs before the pitch became challenging. The Indian batters demonstrated that spin-friendly pitches can yield runs with the right application and adaptability.
Except for Shubman Gill, who appeared tentative, every other Indian batsman looked comfortable, denying England any opportunity to make a comeback. Ravindra Jadeja, batting with the lower-middle order, appeared confident, while KL Rahul made excellent use of the opportunity at No. 4 in the absence of Virat Kohli, continuing his impressive form.
The Rajiv Gandhi Stadium witnessed a healthy turnout on Republic Day, and the crowd appreciated India’s batting display, including Ravindra Jadeja’s sword celebration.
Jadeja finished unbeaten on 81, adding a 63-run partnership with Axar as India showcased their all-round strength, even though R Ashwin, with 5 Test centuries, was run out for 1.
As Stumps were called in the late afternoon, England’s bowlers and fielders looked fatigued, realizing that chasing a target, even 171, might be a challenging task when they bat again.
Each of their four spinners, including Joe Root, bowled more than 20 overs, with Root picking up 2 wickets for 77 runs after delivering 25 overs. Root ended Yashasvi Jaiswal’s onslaught in the very first over of the day. However, England’s bowlers struggled to break significant partnerships, making it a challenging day for the visitors.