India captain Shubman Gill was forced to retire hurt after scoring a superb 80 off 75 balls in the first ODI against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, after suffering cramps in his right foot during India’s chase of 259.
At the time of the latest update, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar were at the crease with India four wickets down, looking to steer the visitors home in the opening match of the three-match ODI series.
Gill Leads India’s Recovery After Early Blows
India’s chase got off to a shaky start as Rohit Sharma departed for 11, while Virat Kohli managed just 5, leaving the visitors under pressure early in the innings.
However, Gill and Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with a crucial partnership that swung the momentum back in India’s favour. Gill looked in complete control, mixing elegant strokeplay with calculated aggression before cramps forced him to leave the field after his fluent 80-run knock.
His innings has put India firmly in command of the chase despite his unfortunate exit.
England Recover From Collapse to Reach 258
Earlier, England were bowled out for 258 in 47.5 overs after recovering remarkably from a precarious 107/6.
The turnaround was led by Joe Root, who remained unbeaten on 76, and Liam Dawson, who scored 68. The pair stitched together a vital 121-run partnership, rescuing England from a position of serious trouble and giving the hosts a competitive total.
Axar Patel Stars With the Ball
India’s bowling attack was led by Axar Patel, who produced an outstanding spell to claim four wickets and trigger England’s middle-order collapse.
Despite Root and Dawson’s resistance, India’s disciplined bowling effort ensured England were restricted to 258, leaving the visitors with a manageable chase.
With Gill retired hurt but India well placed, the focus now shifts to Axar Patel and Washington Sundar as they attempt to guide the Men in Blue across the finish line in Birmingham.