India vs England 1st Test: Ashwin’s fifer puts England on backfoot on Day 1

India vs England 1st Test: Ravichandran Ashwin‘s brilliant performance with the ball has put England on the backfoot on the opening day of the Test match being played at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. This match marks the beginning of the Test series between India and England. The absence of Virat Kohli due to personal reasons and the decision to relieve KL Rahul from wicketkeeping duties has provided an opportunity for KS Bharat to make his debut as a specialist wicketkeeper.

England won the toss and elected to bat first. Despite a solid start, England lost wickets at regular intervals as Ashwin spun his web around the English batsmen. Ben Stokes, leading the team in absence of Kohli, displayed some aggressive batting and completed his half-century. However, Ashwin dismissed Mark Wood with a clean bold delivery, ending his innings at 11 runs.

Currently, captain Ben Stokes remains undefeated at the crease, scoring 58 runs, accompanied by Jack Leach. The Indian spin trio of Ashwin, Jadeja, and Axar Patel put up a commendable performance, with Ashwin claiming the most number of wickets. Jasprit Bumrah also managed to take a wicket.

The first day’s play witnessed 215 runs on the board for England, with the loss of 8 wickets. With solid contributions from Ashwin and the Indian spinners, India has gained the upper hand in the match. As the Test series progresses, both teams will be eager to secure a victory.