India takes 1-0 lead in ODI series against England, fueled by Shubman Gill's 80 and a strong partnership between Axar and Washington.

In a thrilling encounter at Edgbaston, India secured a six-wicket victory over England in the first One Day International (ODI) on Tuesday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Shubman Gill was the standout performer, scoring a fluent 80 runs off 75 balls, continuing his impressive form at this venue where he previously scored 269 and 161 during a Test match last year.

India's chase of 259 runs began on a shaky note as they lost both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early, leaving the team at 48 for 2. However, Gill, alongside vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, steadied the innings with a crucial 101-run partnership for the third wicket. Gill showcased his batting prowess, hitting 11 boundaries and a six, effectively balancing aggression with caution. Unfortunately, his innings was cut short due to cramps and a hamstring issue, forcing him to retire hurt just as he was closing in on a century.

Following Gill's departure, the English bowlers attempted to capitalize on the situation. Iyer, who contributed 35 runs, was run out, and KL Rahul fell victim to Josh Tongue's bowling. Despite these setbacks, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar stepped up, forming an unbroken partnership of 102 runs for the fifth wicket. Their steady performance ensured that India reached the target in 45.2 overs, with Axar finishing on 57 not out and Washington contributing 52 runs from 63 balls. The duo effectively managed the pace of Jofra Archer and rotated the strike well against England's spinners, leading India to a comfortable victory.

Earlier in the match, England faced significant challenges with their batting lineup. After a promising start of 61 runs without loss, they suffered a dramatic collapse, finding themselves at 107 for 6. Joe Root and Liam Dawson then salvaged the innings with a resilient 121-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Root scored 76 runs off 76 balls, while Dawson achieved a career-best 68 runs from 83 deliveries, helping England post a total of 258 runs after opting to bat first. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the Indian bowlers, delivering an economical performance with figures of 1 for 31 in nine overs, while Axar Patel claimed four wickets, effectively dismantling the lower order after breaking the Root-Dawson partnership.