Post by : Shakul

India tightened its grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan after producing a commanding all-round performance on the second day in New Chandigarh. The hosts declared their first innings at a massive 564 for 8 before reducing Afghanistan to 113 for 5 by stumps, establishing a dominant position in the contest.

The foundation of India's huge total was laid by captain Shubman Gill and senior batter KL Rahul, both of whom registered impressive centuries. Gill played a captain’s knock of 126 runs filled with elegant strokeplay, while Rahul completed a composed century to guide India into complete control of the match. Their contributions ensured that Afghanistan spent long periods under pressure in the field.

Rishabh Pant added further momentum to the innings with an aggressive 81, combining flair and confidence to accelerate the scoring rate. Washington Sundar also played a crucial role in the lower order, scoring a valuable half-century that pushed India's total beyond the 550-run mark. Debutant Manav Suthar chipped in with a useful 28 runs, highlighting India's batting depth.

Afghanistan found a bright spot through fast bowler Mohammad Saleem, who delivered a spirited performance despite the difficult conditions. Saleem claimed six wickets for 140 runs, recording the best bowling figures of his Test career and becoming only the second Afghan bowler to achieve such a feat against a major Test-playing nation.

Chasing a massive first-innings total, Afghanistan struggled to build meaningful partnerships. Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made an immediate impact with the ball, dismissing key batters and finishing the day with figures of 3 for 21. His disciplined bowling created constant pressure and prevented Afghanistan from gaining momentum.

Prasidh Krishna provided excellent support from the other end, taking two important wickets and troubling the Afghan batting lineup with pace and accuracy. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah attempted to stabilize the innings, but regular breakthroughs ensured India remained firmly in control throughout the final session.

At the close of play, Rahmat Shah remained unbeaten on 43 and carried Afghanistan's hopes of avoiding a follow-on. However, with a deficit of 451 runs still remaining, India stands in a commanding position heading into Day 3 and appears well placed to push for another comprehensive Test victory over Afghanistan.

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