Ben Duckett’s Century Guides England to Thrilling First Test Victory Over India
Ben Duckett’s Century Powers England beat India by five wickets in the first Test match at Headingley, and Ben Duckett’s hundred was the key moment. England beat a tough target of 371 runs on the fifth day. This is the 10th highest successful run chase in the history of red-ball cricket.
When India posted a huge 430-3 at one point in their first innings, they were in a strong position. England, though, refused to give up and turned the game on its head. The hosts were already 117-0 in their second innings by lunchtime on the last day, thanks to the strong start that openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley gave them.
Ben Duckett’s Century Sets the Tone
Continuing his brilliant form, Duckett reached his sixth Test century with a graceful boundary through the covers. His partnership with Crawley blossomed into a 188-run stand — the second highest fourth-innings opening partnership for England in Test cricket. Crawley contributed a valuable 65 runs, complementing Duckett’s masterclass at the crease.
Just when England seemed to be cruising towards victory, India staged a dramatic comeback. In a sudden twist, two quick wickets fell in consecutive balls — Duckett departed soon after reaching his century, followed by Harry Brook. The quick dismissals shifted momentum, bringing India right back into the contest.
Ben Stokes attempted to steady the innings but fell for 33 while attempting a risky reverse sweep, leaving England’s chase hanging in the balance and tensions running high at Headingley.
Amid mounting pressure, Joe Root delivered a calm and composed innings. His unbeaten 53 runs proved crucial in stabilizing England’s chase. Root, playing on his home ground, displayed the experience and patience required in such a high-stakes scenario.
He was joined by Jamie Smith, who made things even more exciting by hitting a six to seal the memorable win. Even though India played very well throughout the match and scored five centuries, they were not able to finish it. This gave England an early 1-0 lead in the five-match Test series.
This exciting game not only showed off Ben Duckett’s century, but it also showed how tough England is and how they can come back when things get tough. The win will go down in history as one of the best run chases in Test cricket, and it sets the stage for what looks like it will be an exciting Test series.
