India’s poor fielding in the first innings at Headingley hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially by former England captain Michael Vaughan.
Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped some crucial catches on Day 2 and 3 while a seasoned fielder like Raavindra Jadeja also put down a dolly.
After an innings filled with missed catches and loose bowling, Vaughan shared a blunt reaction on social media, pointing out how India might have thrown away a strong position with sloppy effort on the field.
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What did Michael Vaughan say about India's performance?
England wrapped up their first innings just 6 runs short of India’s total. Vaughan took to X (formerly Twitter) and didn’t hold back.
He wrote, “If India had fielded anything like they would have had at least a 150 run lead .. now they might end up with a deficit .. #ENGvsIND”.
If India had fielded anything like they would have had at least a 150 run lead .. #ENGvsIND .. now they might end up with a deficit ..
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 22, 2025
His words weren’t far from the truth. India dropped several key chances- including two off Harry Brook, who was caught off a no-ball on zero and then dropped twice. Brook eventually punished them with a gritty 99, taking England within touching distance of India's 471.
Even Ravindra Jadeja, usually reliable, dropped Ben Duckett at point, allowing the opener to reach 62.
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Who stood out despite India's poor fielding in the 1st Test?
Jasprit Bumrah once again proved why he is one of the best in the world. He picked up a stunning five-wicket haul (5/48), finishing the innings in style by bowling Josh Tongue with a delivery that deserved a bow.
Bumrah was all class, constantly creating chances, but he didn’t get the support he needed — neither from the fielders nor the other bowlers.
Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj did pick up wickets, but both leaked runs heavily. Prasidh ended with three wickets, while Siraj finally got two, but the damage had already been done earlier in the innings.
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England’s lower-middle order also chipped in as Jamie Smith, Woakes and Brydon Carse frustrated India with crucial contributions.
Now, with the match evenly poised and clouds hovering, the pressure is back on India’s batters to give England a big target to chase.