On July 2, former cricketers and experts were left baffled when India captain Shubman Gill announced playing XI at the coin toss. Jasprit Bumrah was rested despite being fit to use his services in Lord's Test, Kuldeep Yadav did not make into the side because India wanted a deep batting lineup whereas Sai Sudharsan and Shardul Thakur were dropped. Day 1 was balanced at Edgbaston, Birmingham, with India posting 310/5 and captain leading from the front. After Day 1's play, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was asked whether there was any confusion around selection.
"No, there is no confusion," said Jaiswal in the press conference.
Jaiswal lauded Gill who remained unbeaten for 114 on Day 1 as he said, "I think he's been amazing the way he's batting. It's just incredible to see him bat and as a captain, also, he's been amazing. I think he's very clear in his head what he needs to do with the team, and we are very confident what we are going to do. So, yeah, we are just trying our best."
Jaiswal continued his good form and scored 87 runs from 107 deliveries, including 13 fours. The southpaw got out slashing at a delivery outside off stump bowled by England captain Ben Stokes. He was disappointed to get out in the manner he did, going hard at the ball instead of holding his shape and guiding it.
"It is disappointing to get out like that but it is part of game. But I want to enjoy the game at the same time. I try to find a solution what can be good in this situation (when he is challenged). Plans are always in the mind," said the 23-year-old.
Woakes gets Rahul, Reddy early
Apart from Jaiswal, Karun Nair (31) and Rishabh Pant (25) got starts but could not go on to get big scores. Opener KL Rahul and batting all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy were knocked over by Chris Woakes for single-digit scores.
India's chance to script history
India's 310/5 is their second-highest first innings score at the venue already when opted or put to bat first. Their highest first innings score is 416 in the Test played three years ago.