Mohammad Siraj once again proved his match-winning impact in the India vs West Indies 1st Test in Ahmedabad, taking seven wickets across both innings. After being the standout performer in England, he continued his dominant run with a fiery display on Day 1, dismantling the West Indies batting order and helping India dismiss them for just 166 runs.
The conditions, however, changed drastically as the match progressed. By Day 3, the surface had become much slower and less helpful for pace bowlers. Siraj explained that adapting to such conditions made his three-wicket haul in the second innings far more meaningful than the numbers suggest.
“Feeling very happy, we did well with both bat and ball. The wicket was slow in the 2nd innings, it just wasn’t coming onto the bat, felt like taking 5 wickets here (despite grabbing 3). I didn’t know that (on being told it’s the first time he took wickets in a 2nd innings in India), it’s a special feeling. The batting was good, everyone took responsibility, KL has been making runs since the England tour, Shubman has been good and so have the others,” Siraj said after the match.
Tough Conditions Tested Siraj’s Skills
While the pitch on Day 1 offered plenty of movement for seamers, the situation was very different in the second innings. The ball was holding up off the surface, and there was little pace or bounce on offer. Siraj had to rely on subtle variations, accuracy, and patience to make breakthroughs.
This adaptability highlighted his growth as a bowler capable of thriving even on difficult tracks — a big reason why he considered those three wickets as significant as a typical five-wicket haul.
Indian Batters Dominate with Three Centuries
India’s batting unit also played a decisive role in the match. KL Rahul broke his nine-year drought by scoring a Test century at home. Dhruv Jurel, making the most of his opportunity, smashed his maiden Test hundred, while Ravindra Jadeja continued his rich form with another century.
Jadeja’s All-Round Show Earns Him Player of the Match
Ravindra Jadeja was named Player of the Match after contributing with both bat and ball. He shared insights into how a break from international cricket helped him improve his game and prepare for bigger responsibilities.
“I have been working hard with my batting. We had a two-month off, there was no Test cricket or ODIs. I was working on my fitness and I went to the Centre of Excellence in Bangalore, worked on my skills and fitness there. Yeah, absolutely (on his recent batting form). I had been batting at number 8 and 9 a few years ago but now I got my place at 6. I have time to prepare myself and I can pace my innings. Don’t need to hurry, I don’t need to rush unnecessarily. I can go out there, take my time and just pace my innings,” Jadeja said.
India Start Series on a Dominant Note
With Siraj’s seven wickets, including a hard-earned three in challenging conditions, and Jadeja’s all-round brilliance, India outplayed the West Indies in the series opener. The combination of strong bowling and consistent batting has given the hosts a commanding start, setting the tone for the remainder of the Test series.
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