Rahul, Sudharsan Put Afghanistan Under Pressure As India Reach 209/2
The duo guided India to a commanding position by tea.
A strong partnership between KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsan guided India to 209 for 2 at tea on the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan on Saturday. The pair added 139 runs for the second wicket after an early setback, putting India in a commanding position on a batting-friendly surface at Mullanpur.
Rahul remained unbeaten on 81 at the tea interval and appeared well set for what could become his 12th Test century. Combining solid defence with fluent strokeplay, the experienced batter looked largely untroubled by the Afghan bowling attack. His innings included nine boundaries and showcased the composure that has made him a key figure in India's Test setup.
Sudharsan, meanwhile, produced an impressive knock of 81 before missing out on what would have been his maiden Test hundred. The left-hander, who has earned the backing of head coach Gautam Gambhir, played with intent throughout his innings despite receiving two reprieves. His aggressive approach helped accelerate India's scoring rate and kept pressure on the Afghan bowlers.
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The Tamil Nadu batter struck 13 boundaries, many of them through the mid-wicket region, displaying his ability to score freely against both pace and spin. Among the highlights of his innings was a stylish straight drive off pacer Mohammad Saleem. While there were a few fortunate moments involving edges that fell safely, Sudharsan made the most of his opportunities and laid a strong foundation for India.
At tea, captain Shubman Gill was unbeaten on 20 and looked comfortable at the crease, striking four boundaries. His arrival ensured India maintained momentum after Sudharsan's dismissal, with the hosts well placed to push for a substantial first-innings total in the final session of the day.
Earlier, India had reached 96 for 1 at lunch after losing Yashasvi Jaiswal despite the opener making a promising start. Jaiswal fell in unfortunate fashion when a delivery from Saleem bounced slightly more than expected, resulting in a faint edge through to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai. However, Rahul and Sudharsan's substantial partnership ensured India recovered strongly and seized control of the contest.
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