India's batting lineup crumbled to 151 all out in their second innings against England in the first Test at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, on July 8, 2026, marking the team's lowest second-innings total in Tests since 1974. The collapse handed England a comprehensive 10-wicket victory, with the hosts chasing down the target of 52 without loss.
Historic batting failure
India's second-innings score of 151 is their lowest in Test cricket since they managed 118 against the West Indies in 1974. The previous low point in recent memory was 158 against Australia in 2014, also in a second innings. This performance has raised serious concerns about the team's batting depth and technique in overseas conditions.
England's pace duo of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson wreaked havoc, sharing nine wickets between them. Anderson, playing his 188th Test, claimed 5 for 32, while Robinson took 4 for 54. India's top order failed to cope with the swinging conditions, with only Shubman Gill (38) and Rishabh Pant (27) offering some resistance.
Match summary
Earlier in the match, England had posted 459 in their first innings, thanks to centuries from Joe Root (128) and Ben Stokes (110). India responded with 376, led by Virat Kohli's 112 and Cheteshwar Pujara's 89. However, the second-innings collapse proved decisive.
“We were completely outplayed in this Test. Our batting in the second innings was unacceptable at this level. We need to go back and work on our techniques and mental preparation,” said India captain Rohit Sharma after the match. “England bowled really well, but we have to take responsibility for our shot selection.”
Impact on series
The defeat gives England a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. India's batting woes have been a recurring theme in overseas Tests, particularly in England, where swing and seam movement have exposed technical flaws. The team will look to regroup ahead of the second Test at Lord's, starting July 15.
According to cricket statistician Rajesh Kumar, “India's second-innings total of 151 is their sixth-lowest in Test history. The last time they were bowled out for less than 150 in a second innings was in 1974. This is a worrying sign for the team management.”
The loss also marks India's first Test defeat in 2026, having won four consecutive matches earlier in the year. England, on the other hand, have now won three of their last four Tests at home.
