India Dominate West Indies as Jurel, Rahul, and Jadeja Score Centuries in Ahmedabad
India stamped their authority on the third day of the first Test against West Indies, piling on 327 runs for the loss of just three wickets to take a commanding lead of 286 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
The day belonged to India’s batters, with Dhruv Jurel scoring his maiden Test century, KL Rahul registering his first ton at home since 2016, and Ravindra Jadeja remaining unbeaten on 104. India’s first-innings score now stands at 448 for 5, replying to West Indies’ 162.
Centurions Shine Bright
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KL Rahul continued from his overnight score to reach a fluent 100. He survived an early scare on 57 when a catch fell just wide of a non-traditional slip position. He celebrated his century with a heartfelt gesture—a bat raise in one hand and two fingers in his mouth, a tribute to his newborn daughter.
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Dhruv Jurel, showing maturity and balance well beyond his experience, played a composed innings of 125 runs. His back-foot shots and temperament against the second new ball stood out. Jurel dedicated his century to his father, who served in the Indian Army.
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Ravindra Jadeja took the attacking route, especially against spin. He charged down the track repeatedly, hitting seven boundaries and a six as he reached his sixth Test hundred. His aggressive batting ensured India remained in control despite signs of wear on the pitch.
West Indies Struggle Despite Spin-Friendly Conditions
Despite the pitch offering increasing assistance to the spinners, West Indies’ bowling attack failed to capitalize:
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Roston Chase, Jomel Warrican, and Khary Pierre toiled on a wearing surface, returning combined figures of 4 for 283 in 82 overs.
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India’s aggressive intent, particularly from Jadeja, forced the bowlers off their lengths, neutralizing the turn from the rough.
West Indies also missed key opportunities early in the day. In the very first over, Jayden Seales induced an edge from Rahul, but a wide slip cordon meant the chance went begging. Seales bowled with heart, reaching speeds of 140 kph even late in the day, though he briefly left the field due to cramps.
Missed Tactical Opportunities
The West Indies’ strategy of defensive field placements, including a sparsely populated slip cordon, allowed Indian batters to settle in. Their approach appeared focused more on containment than wickets, allowing India to dominate proceedings.
Warrican, who initially bowled only two overs before lunch, returned to deliver a 12-over spell after the break, eventually dismissing Rahul. But Jadeja’s charge blunted his impact. Jurel, too, played spin confidently, racking up 86 of his runs against the slower bowlers.
Notable Moments
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Shubman Gill looked composed before falling for 50 while attempting a reverse sweep against Chase.
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Khary Pierre, aged 34, celebrated his first Test wicket after a decade-long wait in the domestic circuit. His joy lit up the stadium late in the day.
Score Summary
India 1st Innings:
448/5 (Dhruv Jurel 125, KL Rahul 100, Ravindra Jadeja 104*; Chase 2-90)
West Indies 1st Innings: 162 all out
India lead by 286 runs