The atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium was electric on Thursday as Shubman Gill walked out to bat wearing the captain’s blazer for the first time on home soil. Leading India in the first Test against the West Indies, Gill received a rousing reception from a passionate Ahmedabad crowd that gathered near the players’ entrance, cheering loudly as their new skipper stepped onto the field.
It was a special moment for Indian cricket fans — a new era under Gill’s leadership officially began, and the excitement was palpable.
Bowlers Set the Tone as India Dominate Day 1
Although India lost the toss, the decision worked in their favor as the pace duo of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah tore through the West Indies batting order. The pair shared seven wickets between them, restricting the visitors to just 162 runs.
Siraj (4/40) was sensational with the new ball, producing a fiery spell and delivering the ball of the day to dismiss Roston Chase. Bumrah (3/32) cleaned up the tail with his trademark yorkers, while Kuldeep Yadav (2/25) and Washington Sundar (1/9) chipped in with key breakthroughs to complete a dominant bowling display.
Rahul Anchors as Gill Steadies the Ship
In response, India finished the opening day in control at 121/2, trailing by just 41 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal played a cautious knock of 36 before edging behind, while Sai Sudharsan (7) was trapped lbw after a brief stay.
KL Rahul held the innings together with a patient 53 off 114 balls, and captain Shubman Gill looked composed at the other end on 18 not out. The pair ensured India ended the day on top, setting the stage for a strong push on Day 2.
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