Ben Duckett says Ben Stokes’ 70 may be decisive despite India’s strong start

India finish day one of first Test on 119-1 after England’s 246Tourists wobble on 155-7 before captain hits top score

A tough end to the opening day of the first Test against India in Hyderabad did little to dampen English spirits with Ben Duckett describing a defiant innings from Ben Stokes as having the potential to be “matchwinning” in the final shake-up.

Stokes struck a calculated 70 with the tail in support to turn 155 for seven into 246 all out, allaying concerns over the captain’s readiness for the tour after knee surgery last December. But given India closed on 119 for one, the tourists head into the second day with work to do.

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