The India vs England 1st Test 2025 at Headingley was a thrilling start to what promises to be a fiercely competitive series. Marked by high scores, five centuries, and a dramatic final-day chase, both teams showcased their strengths. From India’s impressive first innings to England’s strategic chase of 371 runs, this match truly delivered a thrilling Test cricket experience. In this article, we’ll dive into a comprehensive statistical report and a performance breakdown from each day of this captivating showdown.
Leeds Test Match Summary by Day (June 20-24, 2025)
Day 1 – India Dominates with the runs
India won the toss and took full advantage of the fantastic batting conditions. The top order showed both skill and composure, with Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal each hitting centuries. Their partnerships laid a solid foundation, and by stumps, India were firmly in control at 385/3, having lost just three wickets across the day.
Day 2 – England Counterattack Begins
India added only 86 runs on the second morning, finishing with a first-innings total of 471. England’s response was steady and thoughtful, highlighted by Ollie Pope’s impressive century and Ben Duckett’s solid contribution of 62 runs. Despite India’s large score, England ended the day on a strong note at 280/4, staying well in the contest.
Day 3 – Bumrah Strikes, KL Rahul Steadies
Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell brought India back into the match as he picked up a five-wicket haul, helping dismiss England for 465, just six runs behind India’s total. In their second innings, India lost two early wickets, but KL Rahul held firm. His composed start took India to 113/2 at the end of the day, keeping the game evenly poised.
Day 4 – Rahul’s Century, England’s Confident Start
KL Rahul carried on from where he left off, scoring a fine 137 in the second innings. Supported by useful lower-order runs, India posted 364, setting England a challenging fourth-innings target of 371. England’s openers started confidently, with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett putting on a steady stand. They ended the day at 143/1, setting the stage for a tense final day.
Day 5 – Duckett’s Heroics Seal England Victory
Ben Duckett played one of the innings of his career, scoring a magnificent 149 to guide England in the chase. Joe Root anchored the finish with an unbeaten 53, ensuring there were no late slip-ups. England successfully chased down the target of 371, securing a 5-wicket win and a 1-0 lead in the series.
Stats Per Innings:
| Innings | Top Scorers | Top Bowlers |
| India 1st Innings | Shubman Gill (147), Rishabh Pant (134), Jaiswal (101) | James Anderson (3/98), Jack Leach (2/109) |
| England 1st Innings | Ollie Pope (106), Harry Brook (99), Duckett (62) | Jasprit Bumrah (5/83), Jadeja (3/86) |
| India 2nd Innings | KL Rahul (137), Thakur (45), Jadeja (29) | Rehan Ahmed (4/68), Mark Wood (3/91) |
| England 2nd Innings | Ben Duckett (149), Crawley (65), Root (53*) | Bumrah (2/77), Jadeja (1/70) |
Head-to-Head Stats of overall matches:
| Total Tests Played | England Wins | India Wins | Draws |
| 136 | 51 | 35 | 50 |
Match Highlights & Insights:
- Record-Breaking Centurions: It’s rare for three Indian players to score centuries in the same innings in England. Gill, Pant, and Jaiswal displayed superb technique and shot selection.
- Bumrah’s Brilliance: Despite a flat pitch, Bumrah showed why he’s world-class with a five-wicket haul, using reverse swing and tight lines to break partnerships.
- Duckett’s Counterattack: His 149 was not just fluent but fearless, putting pressure back on Indian bowlers from ball one.
- Root the Finisher: Calm and composed, Root once again proved why he’s one of the best modern-day Test anchors, guiding England to a tricky target.
What This Test Tells Us
- Batting Depth on Both Sides: Both teams crossed 450 in their first innings, proof of solid top and middle-order strength.
- Bowling Challenges on Flat Decks: The pitch at Headingley didn’t offer much to bowlers. Those who found success, like Bumrah and Rehan Ahmed, had to rely on variations and clever plans.
- Momentum Shift: England take a 1-0 lead, but India’s batting form and Bumrah’s impact mean this series is far from decided.
Conclusion
The India vs England 1st Test 2025 delivered top-tier cricket, with standout performances on both sides. While India impressed with centuries from Gill, Pant, and Rahul, England’s successful fourth-innings chase led by Duckett and Root turned the tide. Bumrah’s five-wicket haul also stood out in a match dominated by batsmen. With England drawing first blood in the series, India will aim for a strong comeback in the remaining matches. This opening Test sets the stage for a compelling and closely fought series.
