India’s cricket team took a commanding lead against the West Indies on Day 2 of the first Test match in Ahmedabad, thanks to impressive performances by KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. Rahul marked his return to form by notching his 11th Test century, finishing the day unbeaten on 100 runs, while Gill contributed a solid 50 as India ended the first session with 218 runs for the loss of three wickets, establishing a considerable 56-run lead over the visitors.
The day began with India resuming play at 121/2, with Rahul and Gill at the forefront of the innings. Rahul began aggressively, threading two boundaries in the opening over bowled by Jayden Seales, although one of them came off an edge. West Indies’ bowlers managed to tighten their grip during the following six overs, yet both Indian batsmen found their rhythm, driving India past the 150-run mark with strong boundaries off Justin Greaves in the 46th over.
As the batting pair settled in, the scoring rate accelerated, with Gill hitting three boundaries to help India surpass West Indies’ first innings total of 162 before the drinks break. Gill, who reached his eighth Test fifty, scored 50 runs off 100 balls with five fours. However, his innings came to an end while attempting a reverse sweep against Roston Chase, resulting in an edge caught in the slips. This dismissal concluded a commendable partnership of 98 runs with Rahul.
The Indian team crossed the 200-run threshold in 60.5 overs, as Dhruv Jurel joined Rahul in the middle. Rahul, displaying maturity and skill, completed his century—a significant achievement as it marks his first Test century on home soil since his stellar 199 against England in 2016. He reached this milestone in 190 balls, punctuated by 12 well-placed boundaries.
With promising performances and a strong start, the Indian side looks poised to build on their lead and aim for dominance in the match. Fans will be eagerly watching the remaining sessions as the team seeks to exploit their advantageous position.