Yashasvi Jaiswal’s commanding 173* and B Sai Sudharsan’s fluent 87 put India in a dominant position at 318 for 2 against the West Indies in the first Test at Feroz Shah Kotla. After Shubman Gill won his first toss in seven attempts, India batted with authority on a slow, low-paced track, building a strong foundation for a big first-innings total.
West Indies’ disciplined bowling kept extras to nil, but lacked penetration outside the opening session. India capitalised in the middle session, scoring 126 runs without losing a wicket. Jaiswal was watchful early, punishing loose balls while avoiding risky strokes against good length deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in patience and control, earning him his seventh Test century and placing him level with Graeme Smith for most centuries by an opener under 24. Among Indian batsmen, only Sachin Tendulkar has more centuries before turning 24. Notably, five of Jaiswal’s seven centuries have exceeded 150, a feat matched only by Don Bradman at that age.
Sudharsan joined Jaiswal early after KL Rahul’s dismissal and consolidated well at No. 3, adding 197 runs for the second wicket. He played fluently, showing composure against quality spin, before being dismissed lbw to Jomel Warrican for 87. His innings reflected promise, especially as he seeks to cement his place in a batting-rich India side.
KL Rahul had a brief innings, falling for 38 after lofting the spin of Warrican. Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues also fell cheaply, but the openers’ partnerships steadied India’s innings. Jaiswal and Sudharsan punished wayward bowling, particularly short and wide deliveries from Jayden Seales, with regular boundaries and crisp strokes.
Jaiswal maintained his focus deep into the day, seeing India through a dry spell without boundaries. His innings included deft nudges, precise drives, and calculated aggression, ending with 17 runs in the final two overs to finish unbeaten on 173 off 253 balls.
India ended the day in a commanding position, with Jaiswal and Gill unbeaten, setting up a platform to dominate the match and put pressure on the West Indies in the days ahead.
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