Ben Duckett's Stellar 149 Leads England to Historic Test Victory Over India

In a thrilling encounter at Headingley, Ben Duckett's exceptional 149 runs guided England to a historic victory over India, achieving a record fourth-innings chase of 371 runs. This win not only gives England a 1-0 lead in the Test series but also highlights Duckett's pivotal role in the match. His performance, characterized by patience and strategic aggression, was complemented by crucial partnerships with teammates. As England celebrated this remarkable achievement, Duckett praised the quality of the contest and the contributions of the bowlers. Discover more about this unforgettable match and Duckett's standout moments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 25, 2025, 02:22 IST

Duckett's Match-Winning Performance

Leeds [UK], June 25: Ben Duckett earned the title of 'Player of the Match' for his outstanding innings of 149, which propelled England to a remarkable fourth-innings chase of 371 runs against India at Headingley. This five-wicket victory gives England a 1-0 advantage in the five-match Test series and is celebrated as one of the most significant run chases in the history of English Test cricket.

Duckett, who played a pivotal role in England's innings with his skill and poise, described the match as a special experience and praised the high level of competition.

“It was an incredible game; India played exceptionally well. To finish the fifth day the way we did was just amazing,” he remarked.

Starting the final day at 21/0, needing an additional 350 runs, Duckett stated that their strategy was straightforward: bat through the day.

“This morning, it was clear – if we batted the entire day, we would achieve our target,” he added.

His innings combined patience with calculated aggression, particularly in the early phases. He formed vital partnerships, notably with Zak Crawley and later with Joe Root.

Duckett and Crawley established an impressive 188-run opening partnership, followed by a 47-run collaboration with Root.

“We demonstrated maturity throughout the day and showed how much winning means to us. At times, we were behind in the match,” he noted.

He also acknowledged the English bowlers for their significant contribution in restricting India's second innings.

“A huge shoutout to our bowlers for dismissing the tail quickly. Otherwise, we could have faced a target that was 50-60 runs higher, which would have changed the game,” Duckett commented.

Facing India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah was one of the toughest aspects of the match.

“Bumrah is world-class. He was outstanding in the first innings. Minimizing his impact was crucial. We handled him well today,” Duckett observed.

Bumrah went wicketless in the second innings after taking five wickets in the first, conceding 57 runs in nineteen overs.

Known for his sweeping techniques, Duckett effectively utilized the reverse sweep against Ravindra Jadeja.

“It's challenging to play him with a straight bat; the reverse sweep is a shot I often rely on, especially later in the innings for boundaries,” he explained.

He reflected on a critical moment late in the chase when India had a fleeting chance after Ben Stokes was dismissed.

“At the beginning of the last partnership, the game could have shifted had they taken another wicket, but Root's calmness helped keep us steady. Jamie Smith finishing the game was fantastic,” he concluded.