India Takes Command on Day 2 of 1st Test vs West Indies in Ahmedabad
India continued their commanding performance on Day 2 of the first Test against West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, extending their lead to 286 runs at stumps. The hosts ended the day on 448 for 5, with three centurions showcasing batting dominance and putting the West Indies bowlers under severe pressure.
KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Ravindra Jadeja Shine with Centuries
The highlight of Day 2 was the brilliant batting display by India’s top and middle order. KL Rahul kicked off the day by completing his 2nd Test century at home (total 11 Test centuries including today’s), finishing with a well-crafted 100 runs. Rahul’s controlled strokeplay set the tone for the innings.
Following Rahul, Dhruv Jurel made an emphatic statement with his maiden Test century, scoring a composed 125 runs. Jurel showcased a mix of calculated aggression and patience, building the innings steadily after Shubman Gill’s dismissal. His knock was marked by beautiful timing and confident shot selection.
Ravindra Jadeja, who is in tremendous form, added the finishing flourish by reaching 104 not out – his 6th Test century. Jadeja’s innings combined aggressive hitting, notably punishing the spinners with several boundaries and sixes, and a patient approach to anchor the innings. His century pushed India further ahead and demoralized the West Indies attack.
Key Partnerships and Match Progress
The pivotal partnership came between Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja, who combined for a massive 206 runs for the fifth wicket. Their steady and aggressive batting ensured India gained a vital advantage.
By stumps, India had played 128 overs, reaching 448 for 5. The team leads by 286 runs, a position of dominance considering West Indies’ paltry first innings total of 162.
West Indies Bowling Struggles
West Indies struggled to contain the Indian batsmen on a pitch offering some assistance to spin. Jayden Seales and Jomel Warrican were the main wicket-takers but were unable to consistently break partnerships or maintain pressure. The refusal to take the second new ball baffled many, as India exploited the aging ball well.
India’s Strong Position Heading into Day 3
With three centurions and a substantial lead, India holds all the momentum going into Day 3. The hosts are likely to consider a declaration soon to press for a win, while West Indies will need to regroup and show much stronger resistance in their second innings to avoid a heavy defeat.
