India dominated the opening day of the Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, finishing on 368/3 after centuries from KL Rahul and Shubman Gill placed the hosts firmly in control.
Rahul Overcomes Early Trouble
KL Rahul endured a challenging start against Afghanistan’s disciplined new-ball attack. He was on 16 when he edged a delivery from Ziaur Ahmed in the 11th over, but Afghanistan chose not to review the decision.
Rahul struggled for fluency early on, reaching 16 off 34 balls by the end of the 10th over, while Yashasvi Jaiswal looked more comfortable at the other end before falling for 24.
After surviving early chances, Rahul settled in and built his innings steadily, eventually reaching a determined century in the 61st over – his 12th in Test cricket.
Sudharsan and Rahul Build Strong Platform
Sai Sudharsan capitalised once the new-ball threat faded, playing confidently to score 81. He shared a 131-run partnership with Rahul for the second wicket before being dismissed.
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Despite Afghanistan creating a few half-chances, they were unable to convert them, allowing India to consolidate their position as the innings progressed.
Gill Takes Charge with Century
Shubman Gill took control after arriving at the crease, building a 67-run stand with Rahul. While Rahul’s innings was built on patience, Gill capitalised on a tiring bowling attack to play more freely.
Gill brought up his 11th Test century with a fluent innings that included 11 fours and a six, guiding India into a commanding position by the end of the day.
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Rahul, however, fell immediately after reaching his hundred, edging a delivery from Ziaur Ahmed to short extra cover.
Rishabh Pant provided late momentum alongside Gill, adopting a measured approach before accelerating in the closing stages. He struck three sixes in one over and brought up his fifty off 70 balls on the final delivery of the day.
“The way they batted was impressive, and some of the shots Jaiswal played were particularly pleasing,” former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar said. “He didn’t score too many runs, and Rahul had a couple of close shaves early on, but overall, I thought both of them batted really well.”
Afghanistan Struggle to Capitalise
Afghanistan’s bowlers showed discipline early on, with Mohammad Saleem and Azmatullah Omarzai extracting uneven bounce. However, they lacked consistency later in the day and failed to convert key chances.
By stumps, India had taken full advantage of the conditions and the tiring attack, ending the day strongly at 368/3.
