England vs India 1st Test: England Triumphs by 5 Wickets in Headingley

A memorable chapter in Test cricket history was written as England chased down a record target to defeat India by five wickets in the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, on June 24, 2025. In a match that swung like a pendulum over five gripping days, England’s fearless batting lineup overcame a daunting 371-run target set by India, marking the second-highest successful run chase on English soil. The contest, part of the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, showcased centuries from both sides, dramatic collapses, and a finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball.

The match began with England winning the toss and electing to bowl first on a pitch that looked good for batting. India responded with a strong first innings total of 471, thanks to centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant. England replied with 465, led by Ollie Pope’s 106 and a near-century from Harry Brook, who fell agonizingly short on 99. Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul kept India’s lead to just six runs.

India’s second innings was anchored by a 195-run partnership between KL Rahul (137) and Rishabh Pant (118), with Pant becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to score twin centuries in a Test in England. Their efforts helped India set England a target of 371. Despite a late collapse that saw India lose six wickets for 31 runs, the stage was set for a dramatic final day.

England’s openers, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, survived a tricky spell late on Day 4 to finish at 21/0. On the final day, they launched a blistering attack, sharing a 188-run opening stand—the first time both openers had made 50-plus in a fourth innings at Headingley. Duckett fell just short of 150, scoring 149, while Crawley contributed a solid 65.

India fought back with quick wickets after lunch, but Joe Root (53 not out) and Jamie Smith (unbeaten at the end) steered England home in the final session. England reached 373/5 in 82 overs, sealing a famous victory and handing Shubman Gill his first defeat as India’s Test captain

Reactions and Statements

Stuart Broad, the former England fast bowler, had predicted before the final day that India were favorites, citing the need for England to survive the new ball. However, he acknowledged that England’s deep batting lineup and aggressive approach could turn the tide. Michael Vaughan, the ex-England captain, was more cautious, suggesting a draw was possible if England could weather the storm from Bumrah and Jadeja.

KL Rahul, who scored a pivotal 137, praised the resilience of his team but lamented the missed opportunities in the field. “We gave it our all, but England were outstanding,” he said in the post-match press conference.

England’s dressing room erupted in joy as Jamie Smith hit the winning six, a fitting climax to a match that had everything. “To chase down 371 against a quality attack is something special,” Root said after the match.

The victory gives England a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle. India, despite the loss, will take heart from the performances of Rahul, Pant, and Bumrah, whose five-wicket haul underlined his status as one of the world’s premier fast bowlers.

For England, the win reinforces the effectiveness of their ‘Bazball’ philosophy—attacking cricket that keeps opposition bowlers under pressure. The absence of early wickets for India, especially from Bumrah, was a key factor in the result.

The series now moves to Lord’s, where both teams will look to build on their strengths. India will be keen to level the series, while England will aim to consolidate their lead.

Related Developments

• Weather Impact: Rain threatened to play spoilsport on the final day, but interruptions were minimal, allowing for a full day’s play and a result.
• Fielding Woes: India’s fielding let them down at crucial moments, with dropped catches and missed run-out opportunities proving costly.
• Captaincy Debut: Shubman Gill’s first Test as India’s captain ended in defeat, but his leadership and batting were positives for the visitors

England’s five-wicket victory in the first Test at Headingley will be remembered as one of the great Test chases. With the series now alive, both teams head to Lord’s with renewed determination. For England, it’s a chance to press home their advantage; for India, an opportunity to respond and keep the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy within reach.