The first day of the ongoing Headingley Test between England and India belonged to the visitors. After England won the toss and chose to bowl, India looked in complete control and ended at 359 runs for the loss of three wickets at stumps.
Standout performances came from opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a majestic 101 in his first Test match in England, and captain Shubman Gill, who finished unbeaten on 127 runs. Rishabh Pant then added a composed 65*, cementing India’s stronghold. England’s bowlers had little answer on Day 1. Apart from two wickets by skipper Ben Stokes, their seamers looked out of sorts on a flat pitch.
However, cricket in England is always a three-dimensional game. Weather plays just as big a role as runs on the board, particularly here at Headingley. That brings us to Day 2 conditions.
Rain Threat Looms Large Over Headingley on Day 2 of ENG vs IND Test
While India will be pleased with their batting display, their focus on Day 2 will likely be split. The weather in Leeds appears to be taking a turn. It could have a significant say in how the second day pans out.
The forecast for Day 2 at Headingley does not inspire much optimism. According to AccuWeather, there are 70 per cent chances of rain in Leeds on June 21, Saturday. The morning might offer a small window of clear skies, but conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly as the day progresses.
Rain is predicted to make its first appearance in the early afternoon around 2 PM. A "yellow warning" for thunderstorms has been issued from 3 PM on Saturday to 4 AM on Sunday , indicating possible heavy downpours and gusty winds.
What It Means for India and England?
For India, the goal will be to add as many runs as possible before the rain arrives. With Shubham Gill and Rishabh Pant still at the crease and batting fluently, they would be eyeing at least 200 more runs from here with seven wickets in hand if the weather permits.
England, on the other hand, will be desperate for early wickets, and might secretly welcome a bit of assistance from the rain gods. Their seamers could benefit from the increased cloud cover. Conditions are expected to be overcast for much of the day, which might finally provide some swing.
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