Senior Correspondent – SBKINEWS.IN
Date: July 24, 2025
Heading into Day 1 of the highly anticipated 4th Test between India and England, the spotlight was on India’s aggressive batting lineup—and while the hosts put up a solid 264/4 on the board at stumps, the day was marred by a concerning blow to star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant.
Playing at a packed Lord’s in London, India won the toss and opted to bat first—an expected call given the dry pitch conditions and cloudless skies. The openers gave a steady start, but it was the middle order that brought the innings to life. However, an unexpected injury to Pant in the final session raised questions not only about India’s batting depth but also about his availability for the remainder of the match.
Strong Start, Steady Momentum
Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma began cautiously, fending off England’s swing-heavy opening spells from James Anderson and Mark Wood. While Jaiswal departed early for 18, Rohit stood tall, anchoring the innings with 67 runs before falling to a sharply turning delivery from Jack Leach.
Virat Kohli walked in to a rousing cheer from Indian fans—and true to form, he showed glimpses of brilliance with a stylish 48 before being undone by a well-set trap by Ben Stokes. The ball, seaming in after pitching outside off, caught him leg before.
By tea, India were comfortably placed at 198/3, with the foundation for a big first-innings total well laid.
The Pant Incident: A Moment That Changed the Tone
Rishabh Pant, who had been looking in good touch with a swift 31 off 36 deliveries, was struck on the left elbow by a sharp bouncer from Mark Wood during the third session. The impact was immediate—Pant dropped his bat, grimaced in pain, and sat on the turf clutching his arm.
Medical staff rushed onto the field as the stadium fell into an uneasy silence. While initial checks confirmed no fracture, Pant was retired hurt and later sent for scans. His availability for Day 2 remains uncertain, raising alarm in the Indian camp.
As someone who’s covered Indian cricket closely for five years, I’ve seen how crucial Pant has become in high-pressure moments. His absence, if prolonged, could significantly impact not just this Test but India’s momentum in the series.
Shubman Gill Steadies the Ship
Amid the tension, Shubman Gill’s mature knock of 89 not out was the bright spot of the day. He showed composure against spin and pace alike, threading gaps effortlessly and keeping the scoreboard ticking. His knock included 11 boundaries and a six, and his calm approach may prove vital as India looks to build on this platform on Day 2.
Accompanying him at stumps was Ravindra Jadeja, who was unbeaten on 11.
England’s Bowling: Good But Not Enough
England, for their part, bowled with discipline. Mark Wood’s extra pace troubled Indian batters, and Jack Leach extracted turn even on a Day 1 wicket. However, the lack of wickets in the final session will concern England skipper Ben Stokes, who would have liked to send India into stumps six or seven down.
Personal Insight: Balance of Power Hangs in the Middle
From a journalistic standpoint, Day 1 was a story of balance. India showed intent and control, but the Pant injury leaves an air of unpredictability. A score near 400 is on the cards if Gill and the tail hold strong—but England’s second new ball early on Day 2 will be crucial.
As someone who has reported on India’s performances over the past five years—from domestic games to international fixtures—this match feels particularly layered. It is not just a battle of bat and ball, but of nerves, adaptability, and recovery.
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As a regional news reporter with five years of experience in ground-level and sports reporting for sbkinews.in, I have cultivated a deep understanding of India’s cricketing landscape. My coverage focuses on connecting major national developments with local fan sentiment—highlighting how every run scored and every setback resonates across households in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. While I do not cover court proceedings or legal affairs, my consistent work in public interest and sports builds reader trust and authority through on-ground stories that matter.
What to Expect on Day 2
With Gill nearing his century and Jadeja known for gritty knocks, India will aim to cross 400. England’s bowlers must strike early or risk the match slipping away.
Regardless of the result, fans will wait anxiously for updates on Rishabh Pant’s fitness—because in cricket, one player’s presence can shift the tide of a series.
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