Graeme Swann's stunning debut - becoming only the second bowler in Test history to take two wickets in his first over - helped England seize control of the first Test against India on yesterday's second day.

The rookie offspinner trapped opener Gautam Gambhir (19) and Rahul Dravid (3) lbw with his third and sixth deliveries and India tottered to 155-6 at stumps on the second day, in response to England's first innings total of 316.

Swann's first-over double strike has only been matched by English paceman Richard Johnson, who in 2003 claimed two wickets in his first over on debut against Zimbabwe.

"It was bizarre, I didn't know what was happening when I got Dravid's wicket," said Swann.

"It was a terrible first over," he said. "It had everything, a long hop, a half-volley and two wickets, so I can't really ask for more."

Pace bowler James Anderson (1-26) got an earlier breakthrough when opener Virender Sehwag (9) played on to his stumps.

Carrying on the good work of Swann (2-35), England's bowlers ripped through India's top order with Andrew Flintoff (1-26), Steve Harmison (1-29) and Monty Panesar (1-30) sharing the spoils.

"I don't think anyone expected to have them three down at tea. But once you get a break like that, it's important to carry on," said Swann.

Seeking to resurrect India from a precarious 37-3, Sachin Tendulkar pulled Swann for a six over midwicket in his second over.

Tendulkar (37) added 61 runs for the fourth wicket with V.V.S. Laxman, who contributed 24 before getting out in a soft dismissal as he gave a return catch to left-arm spinner Panesar.