Duckett’s century powers England to historic chase against India in Test thriller

LEEDS, England: Ben Duckett produced a masterful century to inspire England to a remarkable five-wicket win over India in the first Test at Headingley on Tuesday, capping off one of the most dramatic fifth-day finishes in recent memory. Chasing a formidable target of 371, England completed the 10th highest successful run chase in Test history.

India looked in control after piling up 430-3 in their first innings, but England turned the match on its head with a mix of bold batting and key breakthroughs. Openers Duckett and Zak Crawley set the tone, cruising to 117-0 at lunch on the final day. Their 188-run partnership was the second-highest opening fourth-innings stand in England’s Test history.

Duckett’s sixth Test century came in style with a flowing cover drive, but the game took a sharp twist when he and Harry Brook fell in successive balls. Ben Stokes’s dismissal for 33 while attempting a reverse sweep added further tension to the chase.

With nerves fraying, Joe Root’s composed unbeaten 53 and debutant Jamie Smith’s confident six to seal the victory steadied the ship for the hosts. Despite India boasting five centurions in the match — a Test first for a losing side — they were undone by three ducks in each innings and missed fielding opportunities.

“Incredible, what a test match,” Duckett said. “It was a huge number of runs and we have been lucky with the weather. I am lost for words.”

India captain Shubman Gill admitted, “We had our chances… but it just didn’t go our way in this match. Our young team is learning.”

With the Ashes on the horizon, England’s bold but more measured approach has delivered a statement win to begin their summer in emphatic fashion.