Despite being considered the favourites, India faced a setback as Ben Stokes-led England secured a 28-run victory in the first India vs England Test in Hyderabad on January 28. Youngster Ollie Pope scored an outstanding century in the second innings, while debutant Tom Hartley proved instrumental in dismantling India's batting unit by taking nine wickets in the game. England's fast bowler, Mark Wood, emphasises that England's remarkable 28-run triumph in the first Test against India has presented a significant challenge for the Indian team ahead of the second game in Visakhapatnam.
The incredible turnaround witnessed England overcoming a deficit of 190 runs to clinch victory, signifying one of their most memorable Test wins in overseas conditions. Crucial performances from vice-captain Ollie Pope, who notched up 196 runs, and debutant left-arm spinner Tom Hartley, who took 7-62 in the fourth innings, played pivotal roles in England's triumph. This win has given them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
India Given 'Something To Think About'
As quoted by BBC Sport, Mark Wood expressed that England’s victory in the opening Test of the five-match series in Hyderabad has given India 'something to think about.' However, the experienced speedster acknowledged the monumental challenge ahead and anticipates that India will come back strongly in the second Test.
"They are a top team. Even coming here before the series, everyone expects India to roll us over. I don't know what pitch they will produce. India have got the potential to produce any wicket here. But now we've given them something to think about. It's not a foregone conclusion that we are going to turn up here and they're gonna spin us out."
'They Now Have To Come Up With A Different Plan’
Mark Wood highlighted how many did not rate England's chances before the series. He asserted that beating India on their home soil was a significant achievement, emphasising the magnitude of the accomplishment for the England team.
"They now have to come up with a different plan. We've only won one game and there are five in the series. We've proved to India it will be a battle and we're not going to give up. It's one of our greatest wins. People were a little bit sceptical before but there was always belief in the group. We knew it was going to be a huge task, which it was, but it's a monumental achievement. Now we know we can do it and we have given India something to think about," he told BBC Sport.