Dharmashala-

India, March 7 (AP): England’s innings came to a quick end as they were bowled out for 218 runs, while India responded strongly with 135-1 at the end of day one of the fifth Test match. Kuldeep Yadav claimed five wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin took four in his 100th test, restricting England despite their strong start at 175-3.

India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma, put on a century partnership, narrowing the gap to just 83 runs by the close of play. With India already leading the series 3-1, they firmly held the advantage.

England’s innings took a dramatic turn after a solid start, with a remarkable collapse of seven wickets for just 43 runs. Zac Crawley’s half-century and contributions from Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope seemed promising until Yadav and Ashwin turned the tide.

Despite Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow’s efforts, England’s middle-order crumbled, losing six wickets in the middle session alone. India’s bowlers dominated, with Yadav claiming five wickets and Ashwin taking four.

In response, India’s momentum was boosted by a strong opening partnership between Jaiswal and Sharma, with Jaiswal reaching 1,000 test runs in just his ninth match. His aggressive batting, including five fours and three sixes, set the tone for India’s reply. Sharma also contributed with his third half-century of the series.

India made two changes to their lineup, bringing in fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Devdutt Padikkal. England replaced Ollie Robinson with Mark Wood due to illness.