India crushed West Indies by an innings and 140 runs in the first Test of the two-match series in Ahmedabad. Ravindra Jadeja (4/54) and Mohammed Siraj (3/31) wrapped up the West Indies’ second innings in 45.1 overs. Jadeja’s performance was nothing short of outstanding. After scoring an unbeaten 104, he took four wickets to dismantle the West Indies batting lineup. His efforts helped India secure a massive innings victory, marking a perfect start to the new home season.

End of a Long-Standing Record

Between February 22, 2013, and October 25, 2024, India had not lost a home Test series. That remarkable streak ended last year. Many key players from that dominant era — including Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, and Cheteshwar Pujara — have since retired. Yet, Jadeja remains a constant figure.

He was part of the team when the streak began against Australia in Chennai, and he stood tall again when New Zealand broke it in Pune. Now, at 36, Jadeja has lifted India once more, this time against West Indies. Interestingly, this was India’s first home Test in years without his old teammate R Ashwin. In his absence, Jadeja’s all-round brilliance spoke volumes.

Athanaze’s Resistance and West Indies’ Struggles

For West Indies, Alick Athanaze showed glimpses of quality. Known for his strong technique against spin, he played confidently. He judged the length well, used his feet smartly, and played some fine reverse sweeps and cover drives. His calmness and skill justified coach Daren Sammy’s decision to bring him back into the side.

However, India’s bowlers kept testing him. Jasprit Bumrah struck him on the helmet, while Washington Sundar challenged him with the turning ball. Eventually, after 73 deliveries, Athanaze fell, closing the bat face to an offbreak that turned from middle. Sundar completed an easy catch, and from there, West Indies’ batting collapsed once again.

Comical Moment and Batting Collapse

There was even a moment of unintended comedy. Jomel Warrican tried to hit Mohammed Siraj with force, but his bat flew out of his hands and landed at square leg, while the ball was caught at mid-off. It summed up West Indies’ disarray.

The visitors are clearly in a rebuilding phase. Missing two of their key bowlers before the tour, they also lack consistency among batters. Opener John Campbell, 32, remains one of their most experienced players with 23 Tests but no centuries. His scores of 8 and 14 in Ahmedabad reflected their struggles. His partner, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, did no better, managing 0 and 8. Such poor top-order returns left them with little hope.

Jadeja’s Tactical Bowling

Jadeja’s bowling was clever and tactical. Critics often say he simply fires the ball in and lets the pitch do the work. But in this match, he showed his intelligence. When Brandon King leaned forward to smother the spin, Jadeja noticed it. He adjusted his flight slightly fuller, luring King forward again. This time, the ball turned sharply, beating the bat and carrying to slip. Within two overs, Jadeja had turned a batter’s strength into a weakness.

Siraj Complements Jadeja’s Magic

Mohammed Siraj also shone with the ball, taking five wickets in a home Test for the first time. His control and aggression helped India dominate every session.

West Indies’ Batting Woes Continue

West Indies’ batting fell apart twice in the same match. They lost 10 wickets in two sessions on both the first and third days. Only two players managed to cross 30, and only two faced more than 50 balls. Their struggles against India’s spin and pace continue, with the wait for a Test win on Indian soil now stretching into its 31st year.

They have just five days to fix their issues before the second Test begins in Delhi.

Brief Scorecard