Ahmedabad: India made a strong start to the first Test against the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday, with their bowlers dismantling the visiting side for just 162 runs in the first innings.
Electing to bowl first, India’s pace attack set the tone early. Mohammed Siraj was the standout performer, claiming 4 wickets for 40 runs, while Jasprit Bumrah provided vital support with figures of 3 for 42. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav also contributed significantly, picking up 2 wickets for 25 runs, as the West Indies struggled to build partnerships. Jayden Seales remained unbeaten on 6 runs, but could not prevent his team from being bowled out in 44.1 overs.
India’s batting response was steady. Openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal stitched together a 68-run opening stand, giving the home side a solid platform. Jaiswal was dismissed for 36, but Rahul carried on, remaining unbeaten on 53 at the close of play. Captain Shubman Gill was not out on 18, with India ending the day at 121/2, trailing by 41 runs.
The performance highlighted India’s balanced combination of pace and spin, ensuring they dominated proceedings on day one. The bowling unit, in particular, showcased precision and control, keeping the West Indies batsmen under constant pressure. The batting also showed resilience, with Rahul and Gill providing stability ahead of the second day.
With the series just beginning, India’s strong showing positions them as favourites, but the contest remains open as the West Indies will look to recover and post a more competitive total in their second innings.