Rahul on the cusp no longer: Rahul seals his 11th Test hundred
Day 2 in Ahmedabad saw KL Rahul reach a landmark moment as he effectively clinched his 11th Test hundred. India, marching in at 212/3 in 65 overs, built on the foundation laid by Rahul and his partner at the crease. This century is particularly significant as it marks his first home Test hundred since 2017, illustrating a remarkable resurgence in his overall domination of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.
India take the lead: a growing advantage on Day 2
With Rahul guiding the chase, India moved into a commanding position as they stated a lead over West Indies. The current scoreboard shows India at 212/3 in 65 overs, giving them a meaningful advantage over the visitors who were pegged back by disciplined lines and lengths from West Indian bowlers. The mood inside the ground remained low-key, with sparse crowds highlighting the unusual scheduling choices for Test cricket in this window of the season.
Shubman Gill’s breakthrough and a timely loss
Shubman Gill’s dismissal coming against the run of play was a pivotal moment on Day 2. Facing a round-the-wicket attack from West Indies spinners targeting the rough patches, Gill attempted a reverse sweep but found the edge to first slip, where a sharp take ended his 50-run innings. Gill’s exit shifted momentum back India’s way and kept the innings balance in their favour as they pressed forward toward a substantial lead.
Bowling plan and pitch dynamics
West Indies have shown a disciplined approach, with stars like Roston Chase sharpening their lines to attack the stumps and exploit any roughness on the surface. The Ahmedabad pitch has displayed signs of reverse swing as it matures, offering something for the bowlers on the longer spell while providing patience for India’s batsmen. The exchange has been a contrast of an aggressive start against controlled defense as India maneuvered through the old ball with caution and intent to build a lasting partnership.
Conditions, crowd, and scheduling concerns
Day 2 unfolded with surprisingly sparse crowds, reflecting a broader concern about match scheduling in the current calendar. Thursday’s start and the holiday-season timing (during Dussehra) have drawn scrutiny, with pundits questioning whether such slots maximize spectator turnout and provide the best environment for a Test chase in a rising market for the format. The BCCI’s scheduling decisions are under the microscope as the series progresses.
What’s next for India
With Rahul’s hundred in the bank and Gill back among the runs, India will look to press home the advantage on Day 2 and extend their lead as they head into the late sessions. The day’s play has set a strong tone for the rest of the Test, with India aiming to translate a clinical display into a decisive result. West Indies will need to adapt quickly and find breakthroughs to swing momentum back in their favour as the surface continues to offer subtle assistance to the seamers and spinners alike.
Live scoreboard snapshot
India 212/3 in 65 overs (Rahul 100*, Gill out, 50). West Indies 162 all out (contextual). The narrative of Day 2 centers on Rahul’s landmark and India’s ability to convert a steady start into a substantial lead ahead of the declaration window tomorrow.
