Shubman Gill’s 80, Axar Patel’s All-Round Heroics Power India to Six-Wicket Win Over England in 1st ODI

India captain Shubman Gill remained as cool as ever, guiding his team to a six-wicket victory against England in the first of the three-match ODI series on Tuesday. The Men in Blue chased down the host nation’s total of 258, with an elegant 80 from Gill, and an equally composed 57 not out from Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, setting up a 1-0 lead in the series.

Earlier, England had recovered from a middle-order slump to set a competitive total of 258 all out after the 76-run stand between Joe Root and Liam Dawson for the seventh wicket. Yet, Axar Patel’s four-fers saw India restrict England to only five-figure runs.

Axar’s all-round brilliance seals India’s victory

England went ballistic batting first, but were in deep trouble after losing regular wickets in the initial phase as India’s bowlers made a tremendous start to the match. Axar Patel was the standout bowler for India as he picked up 4 wickets for 62 runs, with Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar also managing to get two wickets each. England were reeling at 107/6 as a result of India’s disciplined bowling.

However, India’s hopes of England posting a modest total were dashed as Joe Root and Liam Dawson stitched together a brilliant partnership worth 121 runs for the 7th wicket. The two put on runs in quick succession as Root remained not out on 76 while Dawson scored a well-built 68. This helped England post a competitive 258 in 47.5 overs.

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Gill remained in complete control of the innings as he scored 80 runs before retiring hurt. He played a cameo innings, hitting 11 boundaries and a six on his way to the 80-ball knock. Shreyas Iyer contributed with a useful 35-run knock as well, but it was Axar Patel and Washington Sundar who remained not out on 57 and 52, respectively.

The two shared an important 111-run stand for the 5th wicket, which eventually propelled India towards victory. Axar Patel was the standout performer as he excelled with both bat and ball, while Gill and Washington Sundar played crucial roles in India’s win as they chased down 259 with ease. With this win, India got off to a flyer in the three-match ODI series.