 |
| Reuters |
Hosts India bowled out England for a modest 246 and then cruised to 119 for one in reply on day one of the opening test at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Thursday.
Ben Stokes produced a captain's knock of 70 to help England post at least a competitive total before they wilted early into the final session.
Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal led India's strong reply with a rapid unbeaten 76, which included three sixes, while Shubman Gill was on 14 at the close.
India lost Rohit Sharma for 24 but would still fancy a handy lead, especially after England burnt all three reviews in their desperation for breakthroughs.
For the first time in a men's test, England went into the match with a lone fast bowler in Mark Wood, opting for a spin-heavy attack instead, which included debutant Tom Hartley.
India resisted any such temptation and retained seamers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, perhaps knowing a three-pronged spin attack could get the job done.
