The stage was set at JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi, for a gripping day of Test cricket as England and India locked horns in the fourth Test of the series. From a position of disarray to ending Day 1 on a high note, England’s batting lineup anchored by Joe Root’s masterful century showcased resilience and skill, ending the day at 302/7.
The day belonged to Joe Root, who once again underlined his status as one of the modern-day greats with his 31st Test hundred. It was a knock that not only salvaged England’s innings but also took the game to the opposition, earning him a place in the history books with his 10th Test ton against India. His unbeaten 106 off 226 balls was a testament to his class and determination that thwarted the Indian bowling attack.
England’s innings did not start according to plan. Their top order was rattled by debutant Akash Deep, who seized the opportunity in the absence of India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Akash Deep’s enticing swing and seam movement wreaked havoc as he claimed three vital wickets, leaving England reeling at 112/5 before the lunch break.
However, the game witnessed a dramatic turnaround post-lunch, courtesy of Joe Root and wicketkeeper-batsman Ben Foakes. They went on to stitch together a remarkable 113-run partnership for the sixth wicket, providing stability and weathering the storm. Foakes, who showed great composure, contributed a well-made 47 off 126 balls.
Root’s innings were quintessentially classical, absorbing pressure and meticulously accumulating runs. While the Indian bowlers tasted success after tea with Mohammed Siraj claiming the wicket of Foakes and later that of Tom Hartley, Root’s persistence at the crease was unwavering.
Ollie Robinson then joined Root and together they engaged in an unbeaten 50-plus partnership for the eighth wicket. Robinson’s gritty 31* off 60 balls showed his capability with the bat, complimenting Root’s anchoring innings as they steered England to close the day on a challenging 302/7 in 90 overs.
Despite England’s comeback, the Indian bowlers, led by Siraj, displayed periods of control and potency. However, they struggled to sustain consistent pressure across sessions, allowing England to claw back into the game. The absence of Bumrah was felt, but the Indian attack, featuring the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav, will be aiming to capitalize on the new ball early on Day 2.
India’s playing XI saw Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma at the top, followed by a middle order consisting of Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, and Sarfaraz Khan. With Dhruv Jurel donning the gloves and an all-round capability of Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian side showcased a balance of youth and experience.
England’s lineup, featuring Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Jonny Bairstow alongside the formidable Joe Root and captain Ben Stokes, had the depth and talent capable of posting imposing totals. Ben Foakes as the wicketkeeper and the presence of seasoned campaigners like James Anderson ensured a blend of stability and aggression.
The first day’s play set the tone for what appears to be an absorbing Test match ahead. Root’s century, significant partnerships, and moments of individual brilliance from debutant Akash Deep have made the headlines, piling anticipation for the subsequent days of play.
The game highlighted the ebb and flow characteristic of Test cricket, with momentum swinging between the two teams. As the match progresses, both sides will look to cement their dominance, with India eager to exploit home conditions and England striving to build on their resilient showing. With the bat or ball, heroes can emerge, and stories can be rewritten, as Ranchi witnessed on this eventful Day 1.
