Third Test: England reach 268/8 at stumps on Day 1

Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow (89) saved England's blushes as the visitors reached 268/8 at stumps on the opening day of the third Test against India at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) I.S. Bindra Stadium here on Saturday

England's batsman Jonny Bairstow plays a shot during the first day of the third Test cricket match between India and England at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali. AFP PHOTO

Mohali: Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow (89) saved England's blushes as the visitors reached 268/8 at stumps on the opening day of the third Test against India at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) I.S. Bindra Stadium here on Saturday.

Bairstow, who brought up his half-century in 76 balls, looked good for his fourth Test century but off-spinner Jayant Yadav trapped him in front just before the day's play ended.

Earlier, Bairstow and Jos Butler (43) steadied England's ship with a 69-run sixth wicket stand after the top order fell prey to India's disciplined bowling.

Brief Scores: England 268/8 (Jonny Bairstow 89, Jos Butler 43, Ben Stokes 29, Jayant Yadav 2/49, Ravindra Jadeja 2/56)

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