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Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered a standout performance on the opening day of the first Test between England and India at Headingley, Leeds, scoring a fluent and emotionally charged century that not only helped his team seize control but also etched his name in Indian cricket history. The elegant left-hander once again proved why he’s being regarded as one of the brightest young stars in world cricket.
After being sent in to bat, Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided a solid foundation, putting on a 91-run stand for the opening wicket. Though England struck twice just before lunch, Jaiswal held his ground and stitched another valuable partnership with captain Shubman Gill. The duo steadied the innings and took the visitors to a dominant position.
Yashasvi Jaiswal attains a unique record
What made this ton even more special was the unique piece of history it carried: Jaiswal became the first Indian opener to score a Test century at Headingley, Leeds. No Indian opening batter before him had achieved this feat at the historic venue. The previous highest score by an Indian opener at Headingley was 87, made by Farokh Engineer way back in 1967.
That long-standing record remained untouched for nearly six decades until Jaiswal’s magnificent knock finally broke the jinx. The fact that he did it in his maiden Test innings in England only adds to the significance of the achievement.
Early third-session blow doesn’t dent India’s dominance as Shubman Gill eyes three figures
Jaiswal was eventually dismissed for 101 off 159 balls in the very first over of the third session, falling to a sharp delivery from England skipper Ben Stokes. Despite the dismissal, his century laid a strong foundation for India. With captain Gill still unbeaten and eyeing a century of his own, India remain firmly in control as the opening day progresses.
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