Venue: Headingley, Leeds
Date: June 24, 2025
In an electrifying first Test between England and India, Ben Duckett emerged as the hero, leading England to a record-breaking fourth-innings chase of 371. The five-day contest has so far seen dramatic twists, high-quality cricket, and a standout performance from Duckett that will be remembered for years.
Day 5 Highlights So Far
Ben Duckett’s Fourth-Innings Masterclass
Resuming the day at 156/2, England needed 215 more runs to chase down India’s imposing target. Duckett, already set on 62 overnight, brought his A-game, combining patience with aggression to score a sublime 149 off 213 balls, his highest Test score in the fourth innings.
Duckett’s innings was a testament to his ability to read the game, countering India’s world-class bowling attack led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. He showcased a mix of deft touches, exquisite drives, and courageous pulls, particularly excelling against spin. His 188-run partnership with Zak Crawley (78) was the bedrock of England’s chase.
Watch: BCCI TV
Drama in the Middle
The day wasn’t without its tense moments. In the morning session, Duckett survived a close LBW review off Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling, which could have swung the momentum India’s way. Additionally, a dramatic exchange between Duckett and Siraj added spice to an already charged atmosphere, with Duckett responding with two exquisite boundaries in the same over.
India’s fielding woes also contributed to their downfall, with Yashasvi Jaiswal dropping a crucial catch when Duckett was on 128. This reprieve proved costly as Duckett added another 21 runs, putting England within striking distance of victory.
The Finish
With Duckett falling just shy of a deserved 150, Joe Root and Ben Stokes are in the middle taking England towards a historic win.
Ben Duckett: A Rising Star
Duckett’s performance has cemented his place as a cornerstone of England’s batting lineup. This innings marked his sixth Test century and his first in a fourth-innings chase, a feat no English batter had achieved in the past 15 years. Duckett’s ability to handle pressure and adapt his game against diverse bowling attacks makes him a vital asset in England’s resurgence under the Bazball philosophy.
Key Stats from the Match
| Player | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ben Duckett | 149 (213 balls, 21 fours, 1 six) |
| Zak Crawley | 78 (142 balls, 12 fours) |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 4/89 in 24 overs |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 2/120 in 30 overs |
| Joe Root | 42* (52 balls) |
What’s Next?
The teams will head to Lord’s for the second Test, starting June 30.
With Duckett in scintillating form and England’s batting lineup clicking under pressure, the series promises more high-octane action. Can India regroup, or will England extend their dominance? Stay tuned!
