Trisha Ghosal in Birmingham
India may have lost a couple of wickets after tea, but with Shubman Gill’s classy hundred and some handy partnerships around it, the visitors walked away slightly happier at stumps. England, who won the toss and opted to bowl, had their moments too—Chris Woakes bowled a masterful spell upfront, Karun Nair fell to a well-directed short ball, and the hosts picked up two wickets in a trice in the final session to peg India back.
After play, Woakes addressed the media and reflected on England’s plans, execution, and frustrations.
On choosing to bowl first
England’s decision to field first raised some eyebrows, but Woakes stood by it.
“It’s a decision we all buy in and try to do our best,” he said. “In the morning there was a little bit of grass, and it was a decision we wanted.”
On Gill’s century
He reserved praise for India’s captain, who batted with poise and purpose.
“It was a great hundred. He did really well for his team. He managed to absorb pressure and then capitalise.”
On umpire’s calls not going England’s way
When asked about a couple of tight umpiring calls that went against England, Woakes didn’t hide his emotions.
“Well yes, it’s really frustrating. These are decisions which can go your way, but this is the game we play and we move on.”
On England’s position after Day 1
While India ended the day on a better note, Woakes remained optimistic about England’s fightback.
“It’s still a good pitch. There’s enough in it if you hit the right areas. We’ve got wickets at regular intervals. If we can break this stand early tomorrow, we’re still in the game.”
Day 1 at Edgbaston belonged slightly to India, but England’s bowlers—led by Woakes—ensured the game didn’t run away. As both teams look to seize the momentum on Day 2, the next session might well define the match.
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