India found themselves in a difficult position on Day 5 of the 1st Test against England at Leeds, as the hosts reached 181 without loss before rain halted play in the post-lunch session. England’s openers, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, stitched a record-breaking partnership that ultimately paved the way for a thrilling successful chase. Duckett scored a commanding 149, while Crawley contributed a steady 57. Despite India’s spirited efforts, missed chances, including crucial drops by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jasprit Bumrah, allowed England to maintain momentum, eventually securing a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Amid the tense moments on the field, India captain Shubman Gill lightened the atmosphere with a humorous remark caught on the stump microphone. From the slip cordon, he quipped, "Ek taraf Mohammed, ek taraf Krishna, dono tabahi machayega" (There’s Mohammed on one side and Krishna on the other, both will wreak havoc), referring to bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. The comment quickly went viral on social media, offering a rare moment of levity during a challenging day for India’s bowling attack.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar offered insights during the broadcast, suggesting England’s chances had improved significantly after the strong opening partnership. He noted the pitch conditions had made bowling difficult and emphasized England’s temperament as a key factor in the fourth-innings chase. With unpredictable weather and the presence of Jasprit Bumrah still a threat, Manjrekar maintained that the contest remained finely poised despite India’s struggles as the series now hangs in the balance.