- by Masivuye Mzimkhulu
- on 3 Oct, 2025
When KL Rahul, batsman of India cricket team smashed a second home Test ton on Day 2, the momentum swung dramatically in favour of the hosts at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The day ended with India totalling 448/5, carving out a 286‑run lead over the West Indies’ 162‑run first‑innings score, a gap that looks set to dictate the series outcome.
Day 2 Overview: From Trail to Trailblazer
India began the second day 41 runs behind, but by stumps the scoreboard read 448/5 after 128 overs. The turnaround was powered by three centuries – a rare feat in Test cricket – and a 206‑run partnership that re‑energised the innings. Dhruv Jurel, the promising youngster, posted his maiden Test hundred (113*), while veteran all‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, in sublime form, added an unbeaten 104.
Centuries That Turned the Tide
KL Rahul’s comeback was a story of resilience. After a hair‑raising edge in the first over, he steadied with a measured 104, his first century on home soil since 2016. Shubman Gill supported the effort with a composed 52, ensuring the team moved past the early scare.
Jurel’s innings was a masterclass in patience. He struck a crisp boundary off the fourth ball, then held his nerve as the West Indian bowlers toiled through 90 overs for just three wickets. His partnership with Jadeja – 206 runs for the sixth wicket – became the day's defining narrative.
Jadeja, already on a rolling scoring streak, celebrated his sixth Test century and second of 2025. The all‑rounder’s ability to rotate the strike kept the run rate healthy, and his unbeaten knock left the scoreboard ticking as the day drew to a close.
Bowling Struggles of the West Indies
The Caribbean side, represented by the West Indies cricket team, found themselves on the back foot. Fast bowlers Jayden Seales and Johann Layne shared the second new ball early in the third session but failed to breach the partnership.
Spinners Khary Pierre and Jomel Warrican were used heavily. Pierre finally induced a false shot from Jurel, breaking the stand, but the damage had already been done. The West Indies managed only three wickets the entire day, conceding 327 runs.
Implications for the World Test Championship
With a 286‑run lead, India are poised to enforce the follow‑on or set a massive target for the West Indies. The result could swing the points table of the World Test Championship in India's favour, reviving hopes of a finals berth. Cricket analysts, including former captain Ajinkya Rahane, noted that the depth shown by the middle order is a clear statement of intent.
For the West Indies, the challenge now is survival on Day 3. Their batting line‑up will need to dig deep against a disciplined Indian attack, especially the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Jadeja.
Looking Ahead to Day 3
India will open the third day with Washington Sundar still unbeaten on 9. The team’s strategy is likely to rotate the strike while preserving wickets, ensuring a solid platform for a potential declaration.
Meanwhile, the West Indies will aim to rebuild confidence. The pitch at Ahmedabad, known for its true bounce, could still offer something for the seamers if they find the right line.
- India total: 448/5 (128 overs)
- West Indies first‑innings: 162 all out (90 overs)
- Lead: 286 runs
- Centuries: KL Rahul 104, Dhruv Jurel 113*, Ravindra Jadeja 104*
- Key partnership: Jurel & Jadeja – 206 runs
Key Takeaways
The day highlighted India's batting depth and the growing importance of all‑rounders like Jadeja. If the momentum continues, the series could swing heavily in India's favour, edging them closer to the World Test Championship final.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this lead affect the West Indies' chances in the series?
A 286‑run deficit puts the West Indies under immediate pressure to post a substantial second‑innings total. Failing to overcome the lead could force them to follow on, making a comeback far less likely and costing valuable World Test Championship points.
Who were the standout performers for India on Day 2?
KL Rahul (104), Dhruv Jurel (113*), and Ravindra Jadeja (104*) each scored centuries. Their partnership of 206 runs turned the game, while Shubman Gill added a steady 52.
What were the key weaknesses displayed by the West Indies bowlers?
The bowlers failed to generate enough pressure, conceding 327 runs for just three wickets. Their inability to break the Jurel‑Jadeja partnership early highlighted a lack of incisive swing and spin options.
When does Day 3 start and what should viewers watch for?
Day 3 begins on October 4, 2025, at 10 am local time. Watch how India manages its lead – whether they declare early or build an even bigger total – and see how the West Indies' middle order tackles the Indian bowlers.
What does this match mean for India's World Test Championship campaign?
A dominant win would earn India valuable points, strengthening their position in the race for the championship final. The performance also sends a message to rival teams about India's batting firepower.
Amy Paradise
October 3, 2025 AT 21:15What a day for the Indian side – three centuries in a single Test innings is pretty rare, and it really shows the depth of their batting lineup 🙂. KL Rahul finally got back on track at home and his 104 set the tone, while the youngster Dhruv Jurel’s unbeaten 113* proved he can handle the pressure. Add Jadeja’s unbeaten 104 and you have a 206‑run partnership that virtually sealed the day. The West Indies bowlers simply couldn’t find a breakthrough, conceding 327 runs for just three wickets. For anyone following the World Test Championship, this performance pushes India into a strong position for the points race.