India began its much-anticipated Test series against England in grand fashion, defeating the visitors by 5 wickets in the first match held at Chennai’s M. A. Chidambaram Stadium. The victory marks a strong start for the Indian side and sets the tone for a competitive series ahead.
From the very beginning, the match was a high-intensity clash, marked by world-class performances, strategic brilliance, and gripping moments that kept fans glued to their screens. With spin-friendly conditions, excellent individual efforts, and dramatic shifts in momentum, the Chennai Test had all the ingredients of a classic.
A Balanced Start by England
England, winning the toss and choosing to bat first, got off to a steady start on Day 1. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett looked comfortable against India’s pace attack. However, once Ravichandran Ashwin was introduced into the attack, the story began to change. The veteran off-spinner claimed two quick wickets before lunch, swinging the momentum toward India.
Joe Root, the backbone of England’s batting line-up, attempted to anchor the innings with a composed 73. However, with wickets tumbling at the other end and India’s spin trio of Ashwin, Jadeja, and Axar Patel applying relentless pressure, England was bundled out for 238 before Tea on Day 2.
India’s First Innings: Kohli’s Classic and Rohit’s Resilience
India’s response with the bat started cautiously. The team lost opener Yashasvi Jaiswal early, but Rohit Sharma displayed characteristic calm and technique. Partnering with Shubman Gill and later Virat Kohli, Rohit helped build a solid foundation.
The highlight of India’s first innings was undoubtedly Virat Kohli’s sublime century. Scoring 134 runs, Kohli silenced critics who questioned his recent red-ball form. His innings was a masterclass in patience, timing, and precision. His fifty came in 110 balls, while the century took 186—a testament to his disciplined approach in challenging conditions.
India ended Day 3 at 321, with a lead of 83. Mohammed Siraj’s cameo of 29 runs and a few handy contributions from Ravindra Jadeja ensured the hosts pushed the lead beyond 100.
England’s Fightback: Crawley and Brook Show Resistance
England, trailing in the second innings, came back fighting. Zak Crawley once again played with positive intent, scoring a fluent 62. He was well-supported by Harry Brook, whose aggressive 79 off just 91 balls forced India onto the backfoot temporarily.
However, the turning point came with a fiery spell from Jasprit Bumrah. Bowling reverse swing with deadly accuracy, Bumrah removed both Brook and Stokes in quick succession. Ravindra Jadeja cleaned up the lower order, and England was dismissed for 251, setting India a target of 169 to win on a pitch offering significant turn.
India’s Chase: Tension, Drama, and Triumph
What appeared to be a comfortable chase turned out to be anything but. India started cautiously, but wickets fell at regular intervals. At one stage, the score was 83/4, with both Kohli and Rohit back in the pavilion. England’s Jack Leach and Rehan Ahmed were extracting sharp spin and bounce, keeping the Indian batsmen on their toes.
It was Rishabh Pant who turned the tide once again. Returning to red-ball cricket after injury, Pant played an aggressive but calculated innings of 58 not out, dominating the spinners and frustrating the English bowlers.
Partnering with Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 26, Pant guided India to a five-wicket victory on Day 5. The winning runs came with a lofted drive over extra cover, sending the packed stadium into raptures.
Standout Performers
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Virat Kohli – His 134 in the first innings was the cornerstone of India’s batting.
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Rishabh Pant – A mature yet attacking innings under pressure secured India’s win.
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Jasprit Bumrah – Claimed 6 wickets in the match and broke crucial partnerships.
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Ravichandran Ashwin – Consistent with the ball, particularly in the first innings.
Captains Speak
Rohit Sharma, elated with the win, said in the post-match presentation:
“We knew the wicket would break up, and batting last would be tricky. Credit to our bowlers who ensured we had a manageable target, and Rishabh’s innings was pure gold.”
Ben Stokes, England captain, praised his team’s fight:
“It’s disappointing, but we’re proud of the way we fought back in the second innings. Credit to India—they played like champions. The series is wide open.”
Looking Ahead
With the second Test scheduled in Bengaluru next week, both teams will look to adjust strategies. India may stick with its successful spin-heavy combination, while England might consider bolstering their middle order or opting for an extra spinner.
For fans, the Chennai Test was a reminder of why Test cricket remains the purest and most thrilling form of the game. The match had all the emotional highs and lows, dramatic reversals, and skill exhibitions that define the sport.