India’s left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav unleashed a magical delivery reminiscent of the legendary Shane Warne, dismissing England’s well-settled Zak Crawley on Day 1 of the 5th Test. Crawley, who had been tormenting the Indian bowlers, was left bamboozled by Kuldeep’s chinaman delivery. The ball spun viciously, finding the fine gap between Crawley’s bat and pad, and crashed into the stumps, leaving the England batter and spectators alike stunned.
Kuldeep’s delivery was measured to have spun an astonishing 10.9 degrees, a testament to his exceptional skill and control. Crawley, who was closing in on a century, was left shell-shocked as Kuldeep’s “bunny out of the hat” sent him packing back to the pavilion.
Kuldeep’s five-wicket haul played a pivotal role in reducing England to 194 for eight at tea on Day 1. The Indian spinners, led by Kuldeep, ran through England’s batting lineup, taking six wickets for just 94 runs after lunch.
Opener Zak Crawley (79 off 108 balls) provided the lone resistance for England, but his efforts were not enough to prevent the collapse. England’s middle order failed to provide substantial support, with only Joe Root (26) and Jonny Bairstow (29) managing to reach double figures.
The Indian spinners dominated the proceedings, with Ravichandran Ashwin claiming four wickets and Ravindra Jadeja taking one. England’s innings eventually ended at 218 in 57.4 overs, with all 10 wickets falling to the spinners.
Kuldeep Yadav’s remarkable delivery and five-wicket haul have put India in a commanding position in the 5th Test. The Indian spinners have once again proven their mettle, and England will need to find a way to counter their threat if they want to avoid a series defeat.
