Yashasvi Jaiswal produced a batting masterclass in Delhi, scoring a sensational unbeaten 173 to help India finish Day 1 of the second Test against the West Indies at 318 for 2.
Supported by Sai Sudharsan’s 87 and valuable contributions from KL Rahul and Shubman Gill, Jaiswal’s innings put India in full control of the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Jaiswal’s Masterclass: Precision, Patience & Power
Jaiswal showcased the full range of his batting — precision in his drives, ferocity in his cuts, and composure in defence. His 253-ball knock was decorated with 22 boundaries, but what stood out was his control and calculated shot selection.
The 23-year-old paced his innings perfectly:
- First 50 in 82 balls — calm and composed.
- From 50 to 100 in 63 balls — controlled aggression.
- From 100 to 150 in 79 balls — complete dominance.
His square cuts and back-foot punches thrilled the Kotla crowd, while a picture-perfect cover drive off Jayden Seales towards the end of the day served as the defining image of his innings.
Sudharsan Shines at No. 3
Sai Sudharsan, batting at No. 3, played with maturity beyond his age. His elegant strokeplay, particularly in the ‘V’ with fluent cover and on-drives, anchored India’s innings during a 193-run second-wicket stand with Jaiswal.
He fell just 13 short of a maiden Test century, trapped LBW by Jomel Warrican. But by then, he had done enough to cement his place in the Test line-up and silence his critics.
Rahul, Gill Add Stability
KL Rahul made a fluent 38 before becoming Warrican’s first victim of the day, while skipper Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 20 at stumps. Gill will be eager to build on the platform and make up for the missed opportunity in Ahmedabad.
Windies Bowlers Falter After Early Discipline
The West Indies started the day on a disciplined note but soon lost their lines and lengths, gifting India 43 boundaries and one six.
Jayden Seales and Anderson Phillips bowled far too many overpitched deliveries, which Jaiswal punished relentlessly.
Against spinners, the story was similar. Warrican showed some fight, picking up Rahul and Sudharsan, but Khary Pierre and Roston Chase struggled for consistency.
Jaiswal capitalised on every loose ball, forcing fielders to abandon chases more than once.
Dominance Built on Discipline
Jaiswal’s innings stood out not just for its strokeplay but for its discipline and game awareness. He dictated field placements after his century, picked gaps with ease, and kept the scoreboard ticking without taking unnecessary risks.
For Sudharsan, the knock was a statement of belonging — crisp timing, solid technique, and calm temperament.
Score Summary — India vs West Indies, 2nd Test, Day 1
India: 318/2 (90 overs)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – 173* (253 balls, 22 fours)
- Sai Sudharsan – 87 (173 balls, 12 fours)
- KL Rahul – 38
- Shubman Gill – 20*
West Indies bowling: Warrican 2/69; others struggled to maintain pressure.