How Did Siraj Lead India to Reduce West Indies to 90/5 at Lunch?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying start to the first Test, Mohammed Siraj's stunning bowling spell has put India in a commanding position by dismissing five West Indies batsmen for just 90 runs at lunch. As the game unfolds, will India maintain this momentum and secure a win? Stay tuned to find out!
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Siraj showcased exceptional bowling skills, achieving 3-19.
- The West Indies struggled early, falling to 42/4.
- A key partnership of 48 runs was made between Roston Chase and Shai Hope.
- Kuldeep Yadav's return was marked by a crucial wicket just before lunch.
- India maintained a strong grip on the game heading into the second session.
Ahmedabad, Oct 2 (NationPress) Mohammed Siraj delivered a remarkable performance, complemented by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, as India asserted their dominance by limiting the West Indies to 90/5 in 23.2 overs at lunch on the opening day of the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the West Indies faced an early onslaught from Siraj, who skillfully utilized the pitch with his swing, seam, and bounce to secure figures of 3-19, leaving the visitors in dire straits at 42/4. Both Siraj and Bumrah maintained pressure, forcing the West Indies into a series of mistakes.
Captain Roston Chase and Shai Hope attempted to stabilize the innings with a partnership of 48 runs before Kuldeep struck, dismissing Hope right before lunch. Tagenarine Chanderpaul, returning to Test cricket after a hiatus of 21 months, was out for a duck in the opening over, caught by keeper Dhruv Jurel off Siraj’s bowling.
John Campbell was soon sent back after a review confirmed a catch off Bumrah. Brandon King managed to hit three quick boundaries but was caught off guard by a delivery from Siraj that hit the middle stump. Alick Athanaze showed a brief glimmer of resistance before edging to second slip, which marked Siraj's third wicket.
At 42/4, the West Indies were in a precarious position. Hope and Chase's partnership offered some hope, as they tackled spin effectively and capitalized on loose deliveries. Hope, in particular, exhibited confidence with his back-foot play and calculated drives.
However, just when it seemed the West Indies had steadied their ship, Kuldeep, returning to Test cricket after over a year, bowled a stunning delivery that drifted, dipped, and turned sharply, dismantling Hope's defense just before lunch. With five wickets already in hand and the pitch providing assistance, India has established a strong grip on the match as they head into the second session.
Brief Scores: West Indies 90/5 in 23.2 overs (Shai Hope 26, Roston Chase 22 not out; Mohammed Siraj 3-19, Kuldeep Yadav 1-7) against India
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize India's strategic dominance in this match, particularly through Mohammed Siraj's exceptional bowling. The early breakthroughs created a significant psychological advantage, showcasing India's expertise in utilizing home conditions effectively. The focus remains on sustaining this momentum as the match progresses.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the West Indies at lunch?
The West Indies scored 90 runs for 5 wickets at lunch during the first Test against India.
Who took the most wickets for India in the first session?
Mohammed Siraj took the most wickets for India, claiming 3 wickets for just 19 runs.
What is the significance of Kuldeep Yadav's performance?
Kuldeep Yadav's wicket of Shai Hope was crucial, coming at a pivotal time just before lunch, showcasing his skill after returning to Test cricket.
How did the West Indies perform after winning the toss?
Despite winning the toss and electing to bat, the West Indies struggled early on, facing fierce bowling from India, particularly from Siraj.
What was the partnership between Chase and Hope?
Roston Chase and Shai Hope formed a partnership of 48 runs, attempting to stabilize the West Indies innings.
