England start their World Test Championship 2025–2027 cycle with a big victory over India, chasing down 371 runs in the first Test of the 5-match series.
The new beginning of the WTC Cycle 2025–2027 has delivered yet another thrilling Test match between India and England, which went down to the final session on Day 5. England defeated India by 5 wickets to kickstart their WTC 2025-2027
England earn 12 points with this victory, moving ahead of Sri Lanka, who were at the top of the table after their drawn match against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, India sit in 4th position without opening their account.
Updated WTC Points Table after Eng vs Ind 1st Test
Teams | Played | Won | Loss | Draw | Points | Percentage |
England | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 100 |
Bangladesh | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 33.33 |
Sri Lanka | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 33.33 |
India | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
England Overcome India in High-Scoring Thriller to Take Series Lead
England, who won the toss and chose to bowl first, were met with a strong Indian batting performance. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant scored centuries, helping India post a commanding first-innings total of 471 runs.
In response, England’s batters took the aggressive approach to India’s bowlers and nearly overtook the total if not for Jasprit Bumrah, who stood alone like a warrior. He claimed his record five-wicket haul 5/83, helping India secure a slender 6-run first-innings lead.
In the second innings, KL Rahul brought up his 8th overseas Test century, while Rishabh Pant became the first Asian batter to score a Test century in both innings of a match. A late collapse from the lower middle order saw India set a target of 371 runs for England.
With a full day left, England’s openers began the chase with a record 185-run partnership, powered by Ben Duckett’s 6th Test century. Although India tried to mount a comeback with Shardul magic, Jamie Smith’s quick finish sealed the win for England as they took the series lead with a 5-wicket victory.
