New Delhi: Debutant Manav Suthar delivered a standout performance with the ball as India national cricket team took firm control against Afghanistan national cricket team on Day 2 of their one-off Test on Sunday.
The 23-year-old left-arm spinner impressed with figures of 3 for 21 in 15.5 overs, helping reduce Afghanistan to 113 for 5 at stumps after India had declared their first innings at a commanding 564 for 8. The hosts now hold a massive lead of 451 runs, putting them in a dominant position heading into Day 3.
India post imposing first-innings total
India resumed Day 2 in a strong position and continued to build on their advantage with valuable contributions from the middle and lower order. Rishabh Pant played a fluent knock of 81, showcasing a balanced approach that combined aggression with restraint.
Pant, known for his attacking style, paced his innings well, facing 121 balls and striking six boundaries and three sixes. He appeared set for a century but fell while attempting an aggressive shot against debutant Afghan spinner Nangeyalia Kharote.
Captain Shubman Gill added to the team’s dominance with a fine 126 off 177 balls. His innings anchored India’s batting effort before he was dismissed by Afghan pacer Mohammad Saleem, who finished with impressive figures of 6 for 140 in challenging conditions.
Further contributions came from Washington Sundar, who scored a composed half-century. He stitched a crucial 54-run partnership with Suthar (28 off 41 balls), helping India cross the 500-run mark before declaring.
Suthar makes immediate impact with the ball
Suthar wasted no time in making his presence felt after being introduced into the attack. He struck in his very first over, dismissing opener Abdul Malik, who attempted a sweep shot but failed to read the delivery.
The young spinner impressed with his classical action, consistent line and length, and ability to generate turn and bounce. His high release point and flight troubled Afghanistan’s batters, who struggled to cope with his variations.
He then claimed the key wicket of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, inducing an edge that was safely taken in the slips. Suthar’s third wicket came when Afsar Zazai mistimed a shot, resulting in a simple return catch.
His disciplined bowling, combined with subtle variations, highlighted his potential as a long-term prospect in India’s Test setup.
Seamers provide strong support
While Suthar led the spin attack, the pace unit also contributed effectively. Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets for 27 runs in seven overs, applying pressure from the other end.
Captain Gill rotated his bowlers smartly, using Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, and Prasidh in short bursts while allowing Suthar to bowl extended spells. The strategy paid dividends as Afghanistan’s batting line-up faltered under sustained pressure.
Afghanistan struggle under pressure
Afghanistan found it difficult to build partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. The Indian bowlers exploited the conditions well, maintaining tight lines and extracting assistance from the pitch.
Although there were a few moments where Afghan batters attempted to counterattack, the lack of substantial partnerships meant they were unable to recover from early setbacks.
Mohammad Saleem’s six-wicket haul remained the lone highlight for Afghanistan, as their batting unit failed to respond to India’s imposing total.
Signs of a promising future
Suthar’s debut performance has sparked optimism about India’s spin-bowling future. His ability to maintain control while generating turn and variation stood out, especially at a time when traditional spin bowling is evolving in the modern game.
With senior players like Ravindra Jadeja expected to transition out of the longer format in the coming years, performances like Suthar’s provide reassurance about the next generation stepping up.
Conclusion
India’s commanding display on Day 2 has put them firmly in control of the one-off Test. With a substantial lead and Afghanistan already five wickets down, the hosts are well-positioned to push for an early victory.
For Manav Suthar, the match marks a dream start to his Test career, showcasing both skill and temperament. If he continues in the same vein, India may have discovered another reliable match-winner in the longest format.