Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has urged the Indian team, led by Shubman Gill, to take full advantage of their strong start and secure a win in the first Test match against England.
India put up a huge first innings score of 471 runs, thanks to brilliant centuries by Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), captain Shubman Gill (147), and Rishabh Pant (134). On Day One, India was in a powerful position at 359/3.
Ganguly commented that the pitch at Headingley is unusually dry and could become difficult to bat on as the match progresses. He said, “If India gets to 600 runs, the pitch will start playing tricks. They must win this match. They might not get such a chance again.”
In terms of team selection, Ganguly said he would have picked left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh for his different bowling angle, but accepted the team’s choice. Kuldeep Yadav, another strong spinner, was also left out. He added that Ravindra Jadeja needs to bowl well, especially since he usually finds it harder to perform overseas.
England’s bowling lineup in this match was different, missing big names like James Anderson and Stuart Broad. Instead, they played Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and captain Ben Stokes. Ganguly pointed out that they bowled too many short balls to Shubman Gill, but added, “It’s just the first Test, they’ll learn.”
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On Day Two, Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Joe Root for 28 runs with a catch at first slip, keeping India ahead. England ended the day at 209/3, still trailing India by 262 runs. Ollie Pope scored a brilliant century (100 off 131 balls) and was not out at stumps, with Harry Brook yet to score.
Although India lost their last seven wickets for just 112 runs on Day Two, their early dominance helped them post a strong total.
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When asked if India would win the series 3-1, Ganguly replied, “It’s too early to say.”
India had a strong start with centuries from key players. Ganguly emphasized the importance of winning this match due to the pitch conditions. England showed some fightback, but India still has the upper hand after two days.
