India dig in on day one against England

Published: July 9 2014 | 18:22

Last updated: July 9 2014 | 22:49

An unbeaten century from Murali Vijay helps India reach 259-4 at the close of play on day one of the first Test against England at Trent Bridge.

India have dug in to reach 259-4 at the close of play on day one of the first Test against England at Trent Bridge.

ndia's Murali Vijay celebrates after reaching his century as England bowler James Anderson (R) looks on during play on day 1 of the first cricket Test match between England and India at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, central England, on July 9, 2014 © Getty Images

An unbeaten century from Murali Vijay and an unbeaten half-century from MS Dhoni saw the tourists put a healthy score on the board heading into Thursday.

India romped to 106-1 at lunch as Shikhar Dhawan (12) was caught behind by Matt Prior from a James Anderson delivery.

However, England fought back early in the afternoon when Cheteshwar Pujara (38) and Virat Kohli (1) fell quickly to Anderson and Stuart Broad respectively to leave the tourists on 177-3.

The only wicket to fall after tea was that of Ajinkya Rahane (32), who fell victim to Liam Plunkett.

Despite some success with the ball for England in the evening session, Vijay's 122 not out and Dhoni's 50 not out have put India in a solid position ahead of the second day.