In a rare role reversal on Day 1 of the first Test between India and England at Headingley, Rishabh Pant took the advisory role as he cautioned captain Shubman Gill to dial down his aggressive strokeplay in the final session. Known for his own flamboyance, Pant’s on-field words to Gill revealed a new layer of maturity in the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter.
Gill had charged down the pitch against debutant spinner Shoaib Bashir and attempted a lofted drive, only to hit it straight to short cover. Sensing the risk, Pant quickly called out:
“Niche hi reh nikal raha hai toh. Ye aa jaata, uth gaya,” — roughly meaning “Keep the shot grounded. That could’ve popped up and gotten you out.”
This moment stood out not just for the advice, but because it came from Pant, a player long celebrated for his fearless batting style. Yet, when it came time to close the day, it was Pant himself who sent a delivery from Chris Woakes soaring for six, finishing on a fiery 65 off 78 balls*.
Gill, Jaiswal, Pant Dominate England Attack
Gill, leading India for the first time in Tests, led from the front with an unbeaten 127.* He had earlier stitched a 129-run stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a breezy 101. Later, Pant and Gill added an unbroken 138-run partnership, pushing India to a dominant 359/3 at stumps.
England’s decision to bowl first backfired, with their bowlers struggling throughout the day. Woakes went wicketless, Bashir looked raw, and even Stokes’ two wickets couldn’t stop the Indian charge. Only debutant Sai Sudharsan failed to make an impact, dismissed for a duck.
What’s Next
India’s fresh core — Gill, Pant, and Jaiswal — made a strong statement on Day 1, setting the tone for the five-match series. With a powerful total already on the board, England will be under pressure when they come out to bat on Day 2.
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