Sundar, Suthar push India ahead of Afghanistan: Only Test, Day 2 (Chandigarh)

Debutant spinner Suthar took 3 quick wickets as India moved into a commanding position on Day 2 of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur, building on their strong overnight platform to declare at 564/8.

Captain Shubman Gill converted his overnight century into a majestic 126, while Rishabh Pant added an entertaining 81. Washington Sundar chipped in with a valuable unbeaten 52 as India’s batting depth helped push the total beyond the 550-mark.

Afghanistan’s bowlers showed resilience despite spending long periods in the field. Mohammad Saleem Safi was the standout performer, finishing with an excellent six-wicket haul, but the visitors were unable to prevent India’s lower order from adding crucial runs. A pair of unsuccessful review calls also proved costly as India continued to build an imposing first-innings advantage.

India’s bowlers then ensured the hosts ended the day firmly on top, reducing Afghanistan to 113/5 by stumps. Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar enjoyed a memorable introduction to Test cricket, claiming three wickets after striking in his very first over, while the seamers maintained relentless pressure from the other end. Still needing another 252 runs to avoid the follow-on, Afghanistan face an uphill battle heading into Day 3.

Afghanistan 113 for 5 (Rahmat 43*, Suthar 3-21, Prasidh 2-27) trail India 564 for 8 dec (Gill 126, Rahul 100, Saleem 6-140) by 451 runs.

June 2026.