England Stun India with Historic Second-Highest Chase in Thrilling First Test Under Stokes
England Stun India in Historic Test Victory at Headingley
(Image: Jamie Smith celebrates hitting the winning runs for England at Headingley)
As Jamie Smith smashed the winning six off Ravindra Jadeja, a roaring crowd at Headingley witnessed one of England’s most extraordinary Test victories. Chasing a mammoth target of 371, Ben Stokes’ Bazballers triumphed by five wickets with nearly an hour to spare, sealing the second-highest successful run chase in England’s Test history.
Duckett’s Masterclass Leads the Charge
(Image: Ben Duckett raises his bat after scoring a pivotal 149)
Ben Duckett’s sublime 149 off 170 balls anchored England’s chase. His fearless reverse-sweeps left India’s bowlers scrambling, epitomizing the team’s aggressive ethos. Duckett’s third Test century—combined with Zak Crawley’s patient 65—fueled a crucial 188-run opening partnership that dismantled India’s morale. Despite a mid-innings wobble, including Harry Brook’s golden duck and Stokes’ dismissal for 33, England’s depth shone through. Debutant Jamie Smith (22) and Joe Root (42) coolly sealed the win, leaving India shell-shocked.
India’s Missed Opportunities
India’s decision to omit spinner Kuldeep Yadav backfired as their pace attack faltered. Jasprit Bumrah went wicketless, while Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj leaked runs. Rishabh Pant’s twin centuries (134 and 118) were in vain, as India collapsed twice—losing their last seven first-innings wickets for 41 runs. Dropped catches, including Yashasvi Jaiswal’s spill of Duckett on 97, compounded their woes.
(Image: Zak Crawley and Duckett celebrate their 188-run opening stand)
Stokes’ Bold Gamble Pays Off
Stokes’ controversial choice to bowl first on a sunny Day 1 initially seemed reckless when India dominated early. Yet, his relentless belief inspired England’s fightback. The hosts’ bowlers, led by Josh Tongue (4-64 in India’s second innings), exploited India’s fragility. Stokes’ leadership, paired with Brendon McCullum’s bold strategies, continues redefining Test cricket’s boundaries.
Looking Ahead
While England’s bowling had hiccups—Chris Woakes’ rustiness, Shoaib Bashir’s inconsistency—the victory sets a thrilling tone for the series. India must regroup before Edgbaston, but for now, England revel in a win that embodies their fearless identity.
(Final scorecard and crowd reactions highlight an unforgettable Test match.)
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