Ahmedabad, 3 October (H.S.):

India resumed their first innings at 121 for 2 on Day 2 of the opening Test against West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium, still trailing by 41 runs. KL Rahul, unbeaten on 53, and captain Shubman Gill, who was 18 not out, steadied the innings after India’s bowlers had dismissed the West Indies for a modest 162 on the first day.

Rahul's composed half-century marked his first Test fifty on home soil in nearly nine years, showcasing his reliability and experience. His partnership of 68 runs for the opening wicket with Yashasvi Jaiswal set the foundation, until Jaiswal was dismissed for 36.

After a brief setback with Sai Sudharsan falling cheaply, Shubman Gill joined Rahul and looked to continue his fine form as a Test skipper with a steady and cautious approach.The Indian bowling attack led by Mohammed Siraj, who picked up four wickets for 40 runs, and supported well by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, put immense pressure on the visitors early in the match. This strong bowling performance ensured India dominated the proceedings heading into their batting.

With key players across the batting order yet to come, India aim to overtake the West Indies total soon, build a substantial lead, and put themselves in a commanding position in the two-Test series.

The seasoned Rahul and promising Gill remain the pillars on this crucial second day in Ahmedabad.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar