India secured a commanding position on Day 1 of the first Test against West Indies, thanks to key performances from fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. On Thursday, Siraj’s fiery spell dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, leaving them reeling at just 162 runs.
Siraj led the charge with impressive figures of 4 wickets for 40 runs, striking thrice before lunch and returning after the break to seal his fourth wicket. His partner in crime, Bumrah, delivered his trademark yorkers and impeccable accuracy, claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs. Together, they paved the way for India’s bowling dominance, showcasing skill and aggression.
Spinner Kuldeep Yadav contributed with 2 wickets for 25 runs, while Washington Sundar added 1 for only 9 runs, as the West Indies struggled to build significant partnerships. Only a few batsmen, such as Justin Greaves (32), Shai Hope (26), and captain Roston Chase (24), offered any resistance against India’s fierce bowling attack.
Chasing a modest target, India ended the day’s play at 121 for 2, just 41 runs behind. KL Rahul shone brightly in the evening session, crafting a patient innings of 53 not out off 114 balls, guiding India towards a robust position. Captain Shubman Gill was at his side with an unbeaten 18 runs.
Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal made a quick-fire 36 before edging a delivery from Jayden Seales, and debutant B Sai Sudharsan fell cheaply for 7 runs to Chase’s spin. Despite these early wickets, Rahul’s steadying presence ensured India stayed on course to take command of the match.
The Indian innings faced a brief interruption due to rain but returned confidently to the crease. As they look towards claiming the series in this two-test format, the Indian team’s performance on the first day sets an encouraging tone. With Siraj and Bumrah consistently performing at their best, the Windies batting line-up faces a daunting challenge in the days to come.
