• Mohammed Siraj plucked a brilliant catch to get rid of Zak Crawley in IND vs ENG first Test.

  • England have opted to bat first in the spin friendly conditions in Hyderabad.

WATCH: Mohammed Siraj takes an incredible catch to dismiss Zak Crawley on Day 1 of Hyderabad Test – IND vs ENG
Mohammed Siraj takes a brilliant catch (Screengrab: @JioCinema)

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The much-anticipated Test series between India and England commenced on Thursday at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The opening day witnessed a gripping contest between bat and ball as both teams vied for early dominance on a pitch known for its spin-friendly conditions.

England’s aggressive start meets Indian resistance

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, England began their innings with an aggressive batting approach, reaching 55 runs without losing any wickets. However, the Indian bowlers staged a remarkable comeback, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, who claimed crucial wickets to stem England’s progress.

Mohammed Siraj’s heroic effort highlights India’s fielding prowess

The defining moment of the day came in the 16th over when Mohammed Siraj‘s athleticism and agility were on full display. As Ashwin pitched the ball up, Zak Crawley attempted to drive but couldn’t keep it down. Siraj, stationed at mid-off, sprinted forward and executed a spectacular diving catch inches above the ground, sending Crawley back to the pavilion.

Here is the video:

Controversy Surrounds Cleanliness of Catch

Despite Siraj’s stunning effort, the catch was met with some controversy as TV umpire Marais Erasmus reviewed the footage to assess its cleanliness. After scrutinizing multiple angles, Erasmus ultimately upheld the on-field decision, ruling in favor of Siraj and confirming the dismissal of Crawley.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma takes a spectacular low catch to dismiss Ollie Pope off Ravindra Jadeja’s delivery – IND vs ENG 1st Test

England grants debut cap to Tom Hartley

Similar to India, England also assembled a bowling attack dominated by spin, featuring three specialist spinners. The visiting team opted for the experienced campaigner Jack Leach alongside Rehan Ahmed and debutant Tom Hartley.

During the toss, English captain Ben Stokes expressed confidence in their selected XI, emphasizing Mark Wood as the X factor.

“We have Hartley making his debut, Rehan is playing his second Test, but they have got a great leader in Jack Leach to lead them. I have full confidence in everyone. We picked an XI that we thought would give us the best chance of winning. Woody is that X-factor bowler,” Stokes remarked.

Also READ: Spin legend Anil Kumble predicts the scoreline of India vs England Test series

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About the Author:
AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.