Kamal missed out on a deserved maiden Test hundred but lifted a tottering Pakistan innings before they were all out for 312 at the close on day one.

The Karachi left-hander, playing in only his seventh match, showed no hint of nerves as he played shots to all parts of the ground after Pakistan had wobbled to 104 for four soon after lunch.

Indian captain Saurav Ganguly's gamble to include Balaji as the third paceman on a grassy Mohali pitch paid rich dividends against Pakistan, playing their first Test series in India for six years.

The 23-year-old Madras bowler, who had been sidelined since September due to a pelvic injury, eventually finished with five for 76. His captured the vital wicket of Kamal en route to grabbing the last three scalps in quick succession with the second new ball.

Kamal, who was dismissed for 99 on his Test debut against South Africa in Lahore two years ago, hit 14 fours in his 163-ball effort lasting almost four hours.

He revived the innings in a 52-run fifth wicket partnership with captain Inzamam-ul Haq, who contributed 57, before producing useful partnerships down the order as conditions eased in the final session.

Kamal was out facing the first over with the second new ball, bowled between bat and pad as he attempted to drive on the rise.