England Secures Thrilling Victory Against India

Ben Duckett’s outstanding century propelled England to a thrilling five-wicket win in the first Test against India, successfully chasing down a target of 371—marking the 10th highest successful run chase in Test history.

After turning the match around at Headingley, where India had initially scored 430-3 in their first innings, England seemed poised for an exhilarating win on Tuesday. Duckett and fellow opener Zak Crawley guided their team to a solid lunch break at 117-0 in their second innings.

Continuing his superb form, Duckett reached his sixth Test hundred with a four through the covers, while Crawley contributed 65. Their remarkable 188-run partnership became the second-highest fourth-innings opening stand for England in Tests.

However, India clawed back into the game with two wickets in consecutive balls, dismissing Duckett and Harry Brook. When Ben Stokes was out for 33 attempting a risky reverse sweep, England’s victory hopes hung precariously in the balance.

Joe Root’s unbeaten 53 steadied the ship for England, as he and Jamie Smith, who scored a six to seal the win, brought the team home. Despite India’s five centuries in the match, they started the five-Test series with an unexpected defeat.

“What an incredible Test match! There were so many runs, and we were fortunate with the weather,” Duckett expressed. “We knew we would win if we batted the overs, and the breaks helped us stay composed.”

As the final day resumed at 21-0, Crawley and Duckett took 99 balls to reach their first 50 partnership, which was longer than usual given their typical aggressive style. England’s nerves were tested when Ollie Pope quickly followed Crawley back to the pavilion. Despite this, Duckett continued to score rapidly, eventually falling to Shardul Thakur for 149—the second-highest fourth-innings score by an English opener. India’s struggles, with dropped catches and batting collapses, ultimately cost them the match.