Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led India to a commanding position against West Indies on Thursday during the first Test at Wankhede Stadium, dismissing the visitors for a mere 162 runs. Siraj’s exceptional bowling performance, with figures of 4 for 40, included a lethal morning spell that threatened to demolish the Windies batting line-up.
Siraj opened the attack with fierce precision, claiming three wickets before lunch and adding another after the break. Bumrah supported him well, showcasing his trademark yorkers and accurate line, finishing with 3 for 32. The duo, supported by Kuldeep Yadav’s 2 for 25 and Washington Sundar’s economical 1 for 9, dismantled the West Indies batting. Justin Greaves top-scored for the visitors with 32 runs, while Shai Hope and captain Roston Chase contributed 26 and 24 runs, respectively.
In India’s reply, the team ended Day 1 at 121 for 2, trailing by just 41 runs. KL Rahul emerged as the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 53 runs off 114 balls. His innings featured a calm anchor role, crucial in stabilizing the innings after an early dismissal of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored 36 before nicking a delivery from Jayden Seales. The debutant B Sai Sudharsan fell quickly, contributing only 7 runs.
Rahul’s steady performance, complemented by captain Shubman Gill’s 18 not out, allowed India to keep pace with the Windies, despite a brief rain interruption that slowed the match’s tempo. India’s batting lineup looks strong, and with the bowlers already setting a solid foundation, they are poised to take control of the two-Test series right from the start.
This first Test not only marks an important series for India but reflects the team’s keen focus on securing a series victory against the West Indies. As they look ahead to consolidate their position, the performance by Siraj and Bumrah sets a high standard for the remaining games.
