London, July 14: India made a winning start to the ODI series against England, registering a convincing six-wicket victory in the first One-Day International to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Chasing a target of 259, India reached 262/4 in 45.2 overs, thanks to impressive contributions from Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar. The visitors remained in control for most of the chase despite losing a few wickets along the way.
England Bowled Out for 258
After winning the toss, England posted 258 all out in 47.5 overs.
Veteran batter Joe Root anchored the innings with a composed 76, while Liam Dawson added a valuable 68 lower down the order. However, India’s disciplined bowling attack prevented England from posting a bigger total.
The standout performer with the ball was Axar Patel, who delivered a match-winning spell to finish with 4 wickets, restricting England at crucial stages.
Gill Provides the Perfect Start
India’s chase got off to a strong beginning as Shubman Gill played fluently at the top of the order. The opener scored 80 before retiring hurt due to cramps after laying a solid foundation for the chase.
Gill’s innings ensured India stayed ahead of the required run rate and put pressure back on the England bowlers.
Axar Patel and Washington Sundar Finish the Job
After a few middle-order wickets, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar combined to guide India safely across the finish line.
- Axar Patel: 57* (not out)
- Washington Sundar: 52* (not out)
Their unbeaten partnership ensured India completed the chase comfortably with six wickets in hand and nearly five overs to spare.
Player of the Match
🏆 Axar Patel
Axar produced an outstanding all-round performance by contributing with both bat and ball.
Match Figures:
- 4 wickets
- 57* runs
- Player of the Match
His performance proved decisive in helping India secure the opening victory.
Match Summary
England: 258 all out (47.5 overs)
Top Scorers
- Joe Root – 76
- Liam Dawson – 68
India: 262/4 (45.2 overs)
Top Performers
- Shubman Gill – 80 (Retired Hurt)
- Axar Patel – 57*
- Washington Sundar – 52*
Result: India won by 6 wickets
Series: India lead 1-0
Key Highlights
- India defeated England by 6 wickets.
- England were bowled out for 258.
- Shubman Gill scored 80 before retiring hurt.
- Axar Patel starred with 4 wickets and an unbeaten 57.
- Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 52.
- India take a 1-0 lead in the ODI series.
What This Means
The victory gives India early momentum in the series and showcases the team’s balance in both batting and bowling. The impressive all-round display, particularly from Axar Patel, will give the visitors plenty of confidence heading into the second ODI.
England, meanwhile, will need a stronger all-round performance to level the series in the next match.