India defeated England by four wickets in the first ODI at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur on January 6, 2024. Shubman Gill’s composed 87, Shreyas Iyer’s counterattacking 59, and a notable bowling performance from Ravindra Jadeja and debutant Harshit Rana secured the victory. India now leads the three-match series 1-0.
Key Highlights:
India’s Resilient Chase Led by Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer:
Chasing a target of 249, India faced an early setback when captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed cheaply. Shubman Gill, however, anchored the innings brilliantly. He built crucial partnerships with Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel, ensuring India remained in control throughout the chase.
Gill’s composed knock of 87 featured 14 boundaries, showcasing his adaptability to changing match situations. Shreyas Iyer’s 59 was equally crucial, as he attacked the English bowlers with flair. Iyer’s knock included two consecutive sixes, one of which was a stylish reverse switch-hit off Adil Rashid.
After Iyer was dismissed by Jacob Bethell, Axar Patel stepped up with a solid fifty, supporting Gill in guiding India closer to victory. Despite a few quick wickets late in the innings, India comfortably crossed the target with 68 balls remaining.
England’s Batting: Bethell and Buttler Lead the Resistance
Earlier, England started well with aggressive intent from Phil Salt and Ben Duckett. However, disciplined bowling from India brought the visitors down to 248. Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell both scored half-centuries, with Buttler contributing 52 and Bethell adding a well-fought 51.
Phil Salt’s quickfire 43 put early pressure on India’s bowlers, particularly debutant Harshit Rana, who conceded 26 runs in his opening over. Rana, however, bounced back in spectacular fashion. He dismissed Duckett with the help of a brilliant catch from Yashasvi Jaiswal and struck again two balls later, sending Harry Brook back to the pavilion.
Ravindra Jadeja’s accuracy and smart bowling paid dividends as he removed Joe Root and later trapped Bethell LBW, cutting short England’s hopes of a big score.
Harshit Rana and Ravindra Jadeja Shine with the Ball:
Harshit Rana’s debut turned into a memorable one despite a shaky start. His three-wicket haul helped India take control of the game. Ravindra Jadeja’s experience also proved invaluable, as he returned figures of 3/26 and broke crucial partnerships at key moments.
India’s outfielding was top-notch, highlighted by Shreyas Iyer’s quick throw that ran out the dangerous Phil Salt. The fielding effort was instrumental in keeping England’s total below 250.
India Takes the Lead:
India’s victory in Nagpur gives them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Shubman Gill’s steady hand, Shreyas Iyer’s attacking strokeplay, and Harshit Rana’s impactful debut were the key highlights. India will look to carry this momentum into the second ODI and seal the series.
Next Match: India vs England, 2nd ODI – January 9, 2024
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