IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill Shines with Century on Test Captaincy Debut, Joins Elite Club
In a remarkable start to his tenure as India’s Test captain, Shubman Gill etched his name into the history books on Day 1 of the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds. The 25-year-old led from the front, scoring a composed and authoritative century to become only the fourth Indian to achieve this feat in his first innings as Test skipper, joining legends like Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, and Virat Kohli.
Gill’s achievement places him among an elite club, as he is also the 23rd batter worldwide to score a hundred on captaincy debut in Test cricket. His sixth Test century, and third against England, came in his 33rd Test match, showcasing his growing stature in the longest format of the game.
Walking to the crease at a critical moment after the fall of KL Rahul (42), Gill anchored the Indian innings with a mature and calculated approach. Partnering with the dynamic Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a brisk 101, Gill forged a match-defining 129-run stand for the third wicket. While Jaiswal entertained with his attacking flair, Gill exuded calm, blending solid defense with elegant strokeplay to reach his hundred off 140 balls, adorned with 14 crisp boundaries.
A highlight of his innings was his fastest Test fifty, brought up in just 56 balls, signaling his intent to dominate the English attack. His milestone came with a breathtaking cover drive off pacer Josh Tongue, a shot that symbolized his command over the proceedings. At 25 years and 285 days, Gill also became the youngest Indian to score a fifty on Test captaincy debut, and the ninth overall to achieve this milestone.
Leading a team in transition after the retirements of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, Gill’s knock sends a powerful message about the future of Indian cricket. His composure under pressure, clarity in decision-making, and class with the bat hint at a promising new era under his leadership. With India’s middle order bolstered by his form, the team looks poised to build on this foundation in the series ahead.
Earlier in the day, England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and opted to bowl first under clear skies at Headingley, hoping to exploit early conditions. India, meanwhile, handed a debut to promising left-hander Sai Sudharsan at No. 3 and recalled Karun Nair to the Test squad after an eight-year hiatus, signaling a blend of youth and experience in their lineup.
As Gill walked off to a standing ovation after his century, the echoes of this day will resonate in Indian cricket folklore. This wasn’t just a personal triumph for the young captain; it was a statement of intent from a team ready to redefine its legacy. Stay tuned for live updates on India vs England, 1st Test, as the battle unfolds at Headingley.