India captain Shubman Gill's hundred holds off England on first day at Edgbaston

BIRMINGHAM, England – A sublime, unbeaten century from new India captain Shubman Gill ensured the visitors navigated a testing first day at Edgbaston, reaching 310 for five against England in the second Test. Gill, leading the side for the first time in this format, displayed remarkable composure and skill, crafting 114 not out to anchor India’s innings after a challenging start. His performance was a testament to his burgeoning leadership qualities and his ability to absorb pressure on a pitch that offered some encouragement to England’s seam bowlers.

The 24-year-old opener arrived at the crease with the task of stabilising an innings that had seen early wickets fall, but he quickly settled into a rhythm, punishing anything loose while showing immense patience against a disciplined English attack. His century, his third in Test cricket, was compiled with a mix of elegant drives and resolute defence, often finding the boundary ropes to alleviate pressure. Gill's partnership with the middle order was crucial, turning what could have been a precarious position into a solid platform by stumps on Wednesday. He found able support in various stands, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking over despite England’s persistent efforts to break through.

England’s bowlers, particularly the veteran pace duo, toiled hard throughout the day, extracting just enough movement to keep the Indian batters honest. They managed to pick up key wickets at crucial junctures, preventing any single partnership from completely dominating, but Gill remained the immovable object. His unbeaten vigil ensures India will begin day two with a significant advantage, albeit with the task of converting this foundation into a commanding first-innings total. The pitch is expected to offer more turn as the game progresses, making Gill's continued presence at the crease vital for India’s aspirations in this pivotal match of the series.