Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah put on a magnificent bowling performance to dismantle the West Indies batting lineup, skittling them out for a mere 162 runs on the first day of the first Test held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday. Their stunning efforts set the tone for India’s dominance in the match.
Siraj, claiming impressive figures of 4 for 40, showcased his prowess early in the morning, taking three wickets in a fiery first spell. He returned after lunch to add another scalp, significantly contributing to India’s early breakthroughs. Facing him, Bumrah employed his famed yorkers and precision bowling, wrapping up the innings with figures of 3 for 32.
Other bowlers supported well, with Kuldeep Yadav taking 2 for 25 and Washington Sundar contributing with 1 for 9. Despite the collapse, the West Indies batsmen Justin Greaves (32), Shai Hope (26), and captain Roston Chase (24) attempted to build a foundation, but their efforts proved futile against the disciplined Indian attack.
In their reply, India concluded Day 1 at a solid 121 for 2, trailing by just 41 runs. KL Rahul stood out in the evening session, demonstrating calm and collected batting with an unbeaten score of 53 runs off 114 deliveries. He anchored the innings as the team sought to take early control over the series.
Opening the innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a brisk 36 runs before being dismissed by Jayden Seales. The debutant B Sai Sudharsan fell cheaply, contributing only 7 runs before being caught by Chase. Skipper Shubman Gill remained not out on 18, providing steady support to Rahul.
Even with a brief interruption from rain, India showcased resilience and strategy on Day 1. They now aim to maintain this momentum and assert dominance in the two-Test series against the West Indies. With the bowling attack firing on all cylinders and a solid batting foundation, India looks poised for success.
