Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah showcased their bowling prowess on Thursday, as they rattled the West Indies batting lineup for just 162 runs, setting India on a strong footing on the opening day of the first Test. The duo’s exceptional performances at Wankhede Stadium have put India firmly in control of the match.
Siraj, with remarkable figures of 4 for 40, ignited the day with three early wickets, dismantling the Windies batting order. He returned after lunch to claim one more wicket, further crippling the visitors. Bumrah complemented him effectively, bowling with his trademark yorkers to end the innings with 3 for 32. Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar also contributed with two and one wicket, respectively, as the Windies struggled to build any substantial partnerships.
The West Indies fought valiantly, with only a few batsmen crossing the 30-run mark. Justin Greaves top-scored with 32 runs, while Shai Hope contributed 26 runs, and skipper Roston Chase managed 24. However, the rest of the batting lineup crumbled under pressure from India’s fiery bowling attack.
In response, India faced an early challenge but ended Day 1 comfortably at 121 for 2, leaving them just 41 runs behind. KL Rahul anchored the innings superbly, notching up 53 not out off 114 balls, with a solid approach that kept the opposition bowlers at bay. His calm demeanor helped steady the ship after a faltering start.
Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal added a brisk 36 runs before edging a delivery from Jayden Seales. Meanwhile, debutant B Sai Sudharsan had a disappointing outing, contributing only 7 runs before falling to Chase. Captain Shubman Gill provided competent support to Rahul, remaining unbeaten on 18.
Despite a brief rain interruption that threatened to derail the batting side, Rahul’s composed knock ensured that India ended the day on a high note. The visitors now face a steep challenge if they are to compete effectively in this two-Test series.
This performance by Siraj and Bumrah not only highlights India’s bowling depth but also sets a competitive tone for the rest of the match. As the series progresses, the focus will remain on how the West Indies respond to this daunting start, while India looks to maintain its momentum in front of a passionate home crowd.
