In a commanding showing on Day 1 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, India posted 318 for 2 at stumps, anchored by a scintillating 173 not out from Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Jaiswal, who has now amassed his fifth score above 150 in Test cricket, was ruthless against a modest West Indies attack, dispatching 22 boundaries in his innings. He continues to consolidate his growing reputation as one of India’s most exciting young batters.
His fellow opener, Sai Sudharsan, got India off to a solid start, but his promising knock of 87 ended in the final session, when he was dismissed LBW to Jomel Warrican. That wicket ended a 193-run stand between the two left-handers, but it did little to slow the momentum India had already built.
Shubman Gill, promoted into the mix later on, provided steady support, holding one end while Jaiswal continued his onslaught. The hosts struck a balance between aggression and control, choosing their moments to accelerate and punishing anything loose.
The West Indies bowlers, lacking penetration, struggled to make inroads against India’s top order. Their spin attack failed to extract sharp turn, and their pace bowlers were often left chasing the rhythm of the Indian batters.
From the way Jaiswal paced his innings, it was evident he had one eye on a big score. Though he fell short of a double century, his unbeaten 173 ensured India ended the day in a dominant position.
India’s position going forward is strong. They head into Day 2 with 318/2 and Jaiswal still at the crease, ready to resume with the momentum firmly in their favour.
