India vs England: Nair and Sundar Battle Through Difficult Day 1
Karun Nair’s fifty resisted England after rain interrupted play during the India vs England 5th Test 2025. Only 64 overs were possible on Day 1, yet India reached 204 for 6, buoyed by Nair’s unbeaten 52 and Washington Sundar’s steady 19*.
England’s indiscipline helps India in tricky conditions
Despite a seam‑friendly Oval pitch and overcast skies, England’s lack of discipline hurt them. They conceded 30 extras and bowled poorly at times, allowing India to survive pressure. Josh Tongue’s erratic spell — including 11 wide runs in his first over — highlighted poor control. Although Tongue and Overton eventually dismissed Sai Sudharsan and Ravindra Jadeja in quick succession, their earlier sloppy bowling helped India stay afloat.
Karun Nair shines under pressure!
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 31, 2025
52* runson Day 1 — calm and composed knock in the decider.
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Nair and Sundar steady India’s innings
Nair steadied the innings with elegant drives and sensible timing. That was India’s best response after Gill’s dismissal and Sudharsan’s exit. Washington Sundar combined composure with smart defense to offer resistance. Together, they guided India to a respectable 204 for 6 and denied England early dominance.
Gill’s dismissal before break disrupts India
Shubman Gill had looked assured early, using precise footwork to cut and pull through the in‑field. He also surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s 732 runs to become India’s highest‑scoring captain of a Test series. However, his stay ended in unfortunate fashion. A middled stroke devolved into a needless run‑out as Gus Atkinson’s sharp throw uprooted the stumps. That missed opportunity cost India dearly.
*Day 1 Stumps*
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 31, 2025
England opt to bowl first. India holding steady.
Who takes the final glory?
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Weather‑affected play shapes Day 1 story
Rain interrupted play repeatedly, making rhythm elusive. Ground staff struggled with unstable landing areas after overnight rain. Despite that, England persisted with their clean‑up efforts. Chris Woakes even sustained a shoulder injury trying to save a boundary late in the session. India’s lower order, led by Nair and Sundar, resisted effectively in difficult conditions.
