England complete record chase to take 1-0 series lead

Ben Duckett's 149 led England to their second-highest successful run chase to beat India on the final day of the first Test at Headingley.

chrisa

2025-06-24T20:00:20.000Z

Duckett played one of the finest innings by an England batter as the home side pulled off one of their greatest ever chases, beaten only by the 378 to defeat the same opponents at Edgbaston three years ago.

Duckett shared 188 for the first wicket with Zak Crawley, who made a measured 65.

While Duckett was at the crease, England were strolling, but the opener and Harry Brook were dismissed in successive Shardul Thakur deliveries. England, four wickets down, were still 118 adrift.

Stokes joined Joe Root in England's fight and added another 49 precious runs were added until Stokes' fortune against left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja ended with a reverse-sweep to short third man.

Jamie Smith arrived with 69 required and possessed the composure the situation demanded as England completed a five-wicket victory with 14 overs of the match remaining to take a 1-0 series lead.

Root was unbeaten on 53 and Smith 44 not out. The teams have eight days to regroup before the second Test begins at Edgbaston on Wednesday 2 July.

Limited tickets are available across the first four days, including our new City End Social package which includes two free drinks, access to Xcelerate our contemporary indoor space and prime seats behind the bowler’s arm in the Wyatt Stand.

Stokes, speaking on BBC Test Match Special said: "What a mint Test match. To come home with the win is amazing."

"We did what we needed to do in the crucial moments of this game. This win here is not down to just the skill, but the attitude of this dressing room."