Sat Jun 21 15:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Gill, Jaiswal Centuries Power India on Day 1 in Headingley Test
**Leeds, England -** Shubman Gill, in his first Test match as captain, and young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal both struck centuries on the opening day of the five-match Test series against England at Headingley, propelling India to a commanding 359 for 3 at stumps.
Gill, looking calm and composed in his new role, remained unbeaten on 127, displaying a dominant batting display. Earlier in the pre-match press conference, Gill remained tight-lipped about the new style his team would be playing, stating that his players should show their prowess on the ground in August.
The innings, Gill’s most complete away from home since his 91 at the Gabba, was an assurance to critics who had questioned his batting average prior to his captaincy. Jaiswal, making his Test debut in England, also impressed with a century of his own, scoring 101, displaying the modern era style with great class, as 90 runs came from the off side alone. This is his third century in his Test debut in foreign soil after West Indies and Australia.
The duo built a strong foundation for India after the early loss of two wickets in quick succession following a 91-run opening stand between Jaiswal and KL Rahul. Gill and Jaiswal then wrestled the momentum away from England, with Gill accelerating after a steady start.
Gill’s innings was characterized by elegant timing and precise footwork, particularly against the inswinging deliveries that had troubled him in the past. His century, only the fifth by an Indian on Test captaincy debut, came with a graceful cover drive. Jaiswal, on the other hand, showcased his versatility with the bat, punishing width with relentless efficiency, despite struggling with cramps.
While acknowledging that the English attack may have lacked sharpness, the dominance of the two Indian batsmen could not be denied. England’s bowlers, coming off a long break from red-ball cricket, seemed to struggle for rhythm and discipline on a pitch that offered limited assistance.
Both Gill and Jaiswal, former stars of the Under-19 World Cup, are expected to lead the way in Indian Test batting for the next decade. The two young players have come after successful IPL campagins. While sterner tests undoubtedly lie ahead, their first impressions at Headingley have laid the foundation for a potentially memorable series.
First Piper 