INDvsAFG Test Day 3: Afghanistan Resume at 113/5, Trail India by 451 Runs

India tightened their grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan as the visitors faced a mounting follow-on threat at the end of Day 2 in Mullanpur. Afghanistan closed the day at 113 for 5 in their first innings, still trailing India by 451 runs after the hosts declared at a commanding 564 for 8. With significant work remaining to avoid the follow-on, Afghanistan will rely heavily on their middle and lower orders when play resumes on Day 3.

The Indian batting unit laid the foundation for their dominance with several key contributions throughout the innings. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a composed 126, anchoring the innings and ensuring India built a substantial total. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant added an aggressive 81, while Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 52, helping India accelerate before declaring in the second session.

Despite the massive total conceded, Afghanistan found a bright spot in pacer Mohammad Saleem Safi, who emerged as the standout performer with six wickets. His disciplined spell prevented India from posting an even bigger score and provided one of the few positives for the visitors. However, the lack of support from the rest of the bowling attack allowed India to maintain control for most of their innings.

Also Read: Manav Suthar Shines On Test Debut As India Take Control Against Afghanistan On Day 2

Afghanistan's reply got off to a difficult start as the Indian bowlers exploited favorable conditions and struck regularly. The visitors lost wickets at crucial intervals and struggled to build meaningful partnerships. With half the side back in the pavilion by stumps, Afghanistan found itself under immense pressure against a confident Indian attack.

Making his Test debut, Manav Suthar impressed with the ball and played a major role in putting Afghanistan on the back foot. The left-arm spinner claimed three wickets and consistently troubled the batters with his accuracy and control. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna provided excellent support by picking up two wickets, ensuring India maintained momentum throughout the final session.

As Day 3 begins, Afghanistan's hopes rest largely on the shoulders of Rahmat Shah, who remains unbeaten on 43. The experienced batter will be expected to guide the lower order and help his team reduce the deficit significantly. India, meanwhile, will look to wrap up the innings quickly, with Suthar eyeing a five-wicket haul and the hosts pushing for a decisive advantage in the match.

Also Read: Rajasthan Spinner Manav Suthar Earns Test Debut With 129 First-Class Wickets Behind Him