In an electrifying start to the first Test match, Indian bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, skittling them out for just 162 runs on Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. India ended the day at 121 for 2, trailing by just 41 runs with KL Rahul steadying the innings.
Siraj led the charge with impressive figures of 4 for 40, tearing through the West Indies top order in a fiery morning spell. He struck thrice early on before returning to claim his fourth wicket after lunch. Bumrah, known for his pinpoint accuracy, supported him well with 3 wickets for 32 runs, delivering a masterclass in bowling with his trademark yorkers.
While Kuldeep Yadav added two wickets for 25 runs and Washington Sundar bagged one for 9, the Windies struggled to get going. Only a few batsmen managed to offer any resistance. Justin Greaves top-scored with 32 runs, while Shai Hope and captain Roston Chase contributed 26 and 24 runs, respectively, before succumbing to the Indian bowlers.
Post lunch, India took to the crease with confidence, although an initial wobble saw opener Yashasvi Jaiswal dismissed for 36 runs after edging a delivery from Jayden Seales. Debutant B Sai Sudharsan fell cheaply for just 7 runs, adding to the early tension in the Indian innings. However, KL Rahul’s calm presence at the crease proved pivotal.
Rahul settled in to make 53 not out off 114 balls, comprising a range of elegant strokes that showcased his ability to anchor the innings. Skipper Shubman Gill, who ended the day unbeaten on 18, provided solid support as India looked to seize control early in the two-Test series.
Despite a brief interruption due to rain, India’s batting remains on course. The team ended Day 1 in a promising position, eyes firmly set on asserting dominance over the West Indies. With strong performances from Siraj and Bumrah, and Rahul’s steady hand, India hopes to build a substantial lead before the end of the second day.
