Rishabh Pant Remains Unbeaten on 81; Shubman Gill’s Century Puts India in Command
New Chandigarh (Economy India): India tightened its grip on the Chandigarh Test against Afghanistan with a dominant batting display on Day 2, crossing the 450-run mark in the first innings and putting the visitors under immense pressure.
At the time of reporting, India had reached 452/5, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant unbeaten on 81 runs. The hosts continued to capitalize on the solid foundation laid by captain Shubman Gill, whose superb century anchored the innings.
Afghanistan pacer Mohammad Salim Safi emerged as the most successful bowler for his side, claiming four wickets and providing the few breakthroughs in an otherwise difficult outing for the Afghan attack.
Gill Leads from the Front
Resuming the day at 368/3, India continued its dominance as captain Shubman Gill converted his overnight century into a commanding 126-run knock.
Gill displayed excellent temperament and stroke play, frustrating Afghanistan’s bowlers during a crucial partnership with Rishabh Pant.
The Indian skipper’s innings came to an end in the 96th over when Mohammad Salim Safi produced extra bounce outside the off stump. Gill attempted an attacking stroke but edged the ball to wicketkeeper Afsar Jazai, ending a remarkable innings.
His dismissal also brought an end to a massive 169-run partnership with Pant that helped India move into a commanding position.
Pant Continues Aggressive Approach
Rishabh Pant once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the most destructive wicketkeeper-batsmen in world cricket.
The left-hander remained unbeaten on 81 and looked set for another Test century. His attacking stroke play kept Afghanistan’s bowlers under constant pressure while ensuring the scoring rate remained healthy.
Pant’s ability to rotate strike and punish loose deliveries played a key role in maintaining India’s momentum throughout the morning session.
Dhruv Jurel Falls After Useful Contribution
Young batter Dhruv Jurel provided useful support but could not convert his start into a bigger score.
The right-hander was bowled by Mohammad Salim Safi after scoring 19 runs. Despite his brief stay, Jurel contributed to India’s growing total and helped maintain pressure on the opposition.
His wicket gave Afghanistan temporary relief, but India’s batting depth ensured there was no major slowdown.
India Crosses 400-Run Milestone
One of the major highlights of the session came when Shubman Gill guided India past the 400-run mark.
In the 93rd over, Gill played a beautifully timed late cut off Azmatullah Omarzai for four, taking India’s total beyond 400 and further strengthening their position in the match.
The milestone reflected India’s complete dominance after winning the toss and opting to bat first.
Strong Foundation Built on Day One
India’s impressive total was built on contributions from multiple batters.
On the opening day:
- KL Rahul scored a brilliant century.
- Sai Sudharsan registered an important half-century.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed 24 runs at the top of the order.
- Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant carried the momentum into Day 2.
The collective effort highlighted the depth and balance of India’s batting lineup.
Afghanistan Struggle for Breakthroughs
Afghanistan’s bowlers found it difficult to contain India’s batters on a surface that offered little assistance.
While Mohammad Salim Safi impressed with four wickets, the rest of the attack struggled to maintain consistent pressure.
Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi frequently rotated his bowlers in search of breakthroughs, but India’s batters remained largely in control.
With India already past 450, Afghanistan faces a significant challenge when they come out to bat.
Match Situation
India First Innings: 452/5
Top Performers
India
- Shubman Gill – 126
- Rishabh Pant – 81* (not out)
- KL Rahul – Century
- Sai Sudharsan – Half-century
Afghanistan
- Mohammad Salim Safi – 4 wickets
Outlook
With plenty of batting still to come and Rishabh Pant looking comfortable at the crease, India will aim to push its first-innings total beyond 500.
Afghanistan, meanwhile, will be desperate to wrap up the innings quickly and prevent the hosts from building an even larger advantage.
As the second day’s play continues in New Chandigarh, India remains firmly in control of the contest and appears well-positioned to dictate the course of the match.
(Economy India)
