NEW DELHI: India seized control on the opening day of the first Test against England as their spinners wreaked havoc, bowling out the visitors for 246 after captain Ben Stokes chose to bat first.
England's openers, Zak Crawley (20) and Ben Duckett (35), provided a solid start with a 55-run partnership. However, India's premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck early, trapping Duckett in front of the wicket.
Scorecard: IND vs ENG 1st Test
Stokes was the standout performer for England, top-scoring with an impressive 70 off 88 balls, before being dismissed by fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Jonny Bairstow contributed a valuable 37 before falling victim to a beautiful delivery from left-arm spinner Axar Patel (2/33).
The spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin claimed three wickets each, dismantling England's middle order. Axar Patel and Bumrah chipped in with two wickets each to round off an exceptional bowling performance by the Indian team.
India's disciplined bowling effort on a turning track put them in a commanding position as they look to take charge in the batting department during the remainder of the Test match.
(With inputs from PTI)
