Introduction
The highly anticipated India vs England Test series began with an exciting match in Hyderabad. It set the stage for what could be a thrilling series. Ben Stokes led the visitors to an impressive comeback win over the strong Indian team on their home ground, which is a rare occurrence in recent years.
In this article, we discuss the first Test's highlights, key moments, individual performances, and what to expect as we look forward to the second Test in Visakhapatnam.
1st Test Recap: Hyderabad Turns into a Bazball Battlefield
Match Date: January 25-29, 2025
Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
Result: England won by 28 runs
Day 1: India Takes Early Control
India won the toss and chose to bowl, which was a bold choice. The English batters struggled against Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, scoring only 212 runs. Only Joe Root (58) and Ben Foakes (42) put up some resistance.
India answered strongly with the bat. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored an impressive 154 off 184 balls. By the end of Day 2, India held a solid 190-run lead.
Day 2-3: England’s Bazball Spirit Awakens
Facing a significant 190-run deficit, England came out swinging in their second innings. Zak Crawley (93) and Ben Duckett (81) attacked the Indian bowlers with aggressive intent; the well-known "Bazball" strategy was on full display.
India’s spinners struggled to contain the runs, and England finished with 420 runs, setting India a target of 231 on a deteriorating pitch.
Day 4: India’s Batting Collapse Shocks Fans
India began its chase cautiously, but spin bowlers Tom Hartley (7/62) and Rehan Ahmed (2/34) caused chaos. Under pressure, India fell apart and was bowled out for 202, coming in 28 runs short.
This marked one of the rare instances when India lost a Test at home after having a large first-innings lead.
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | India | 154 in 1st innings |
| Tom Hartley | England | 7 wickets in 2nd innings (match-winner) |
| Zak Crawley | England | 93 in 2nd innings |
| Ben Stokes | England | Captaincy masterclass + 3 wickets |
| Jasprit Bumrah | India | 6 wickets in match |
What Went Wrong for India?
Overconfidence After First Innings Lead
India’s approach lacked urgency in the second innings and underestimated England’s spin threat.
Lack of Application by Middle Order
Despite a solid start, the Indian middle order, including Shubman Gill, Rahul, and Iyer, failed to perform under pressure.
Unfamiliarity with England's New-Gen Spinners
Debutant Tom Hartley used bounce and variation effectively, catching Indian batters off guard.
What’s Next? 2nd Test Preview – Visakhapatnam
Date: February 2–6, 2025
Venue: ACA-VDCA Stadium, Visakhapatnam
India has a strong record in Vizag, having won 4 of the last 5 Tests there. The pitch is usually spin-friendly and offers variable bounce from Day 3 onward.
What India Needs to Do in the 2nd Test
Reinforce the Middle Order: A possible return for Cheteshwar Pujara or Hanuma Vihari?
Rethink Bowling Combination: Include an extra spinner or choose an all-rounder like Washington Sundar?
Aggressive Batting vs Spin: India needs to counter England’s spinners with sweep shots and quick footwork.
What Experts Are Saying
“India took their foot off the gas. In Visakhapatnam, I expect a fiery comeback.” — Sunil Gavaskar
“England’s approach is high-risk, but when it works, it rattles opponents. India must adjust.” — Michael Vaughan
Player Battles to Watch
Jaiswal vs Hartley – Can Jaiswal repeat his Hyderabad performance?
Root vs Ashwin – A classic duel between elegance and strategy.
Bumrah vs Bairstow – Raw pace vs brute power.
Final Thoughts
The 1st Test served as a wake-up call for India and made a strong statement from England. The Bazball revolution has now knocked on the doors of Indian cricket. With the series finely poised at 0–1, India cannot afford to fall behind 0–2. The second Test in Visakhapatnam promises to be a high-stakes battle, and fans around the world are eagerly waiting.
Will Rohit Sharma’s team bounce back with determination, or will Stokes and his team continue their fearless march?
Stay tuned; cricket’s greatest drama is unfolding!