Manav Suthar Shines on Test Debut with Six-Wicket Haul Against Afghanistan

Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made a remarkable Test debut, taking six wickets against Afghanistan and helping India enforce a follow-on. His impressive figures of 6 for 33 place him among the top debut performances in Indian cricket history. Suthar's journey to the national team has been marked by consistent domestic performances, including notable achievements in the Ranji Trophy and against Australia A. This article explores his debut match and the path that led him to this significant milestone.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 8, 2026, 12:11 IST

Manav Suthar's Impressive Test Debut

In a remarkable display of skill, left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made a stunning entry into international cricket, achieving a six-wicket haul during his Test debut. This performance was pivotal in helping India bowl out Afghanistan for just 152 runs, leading to the enforcement of a follow-on on Day 3 of the one-off Test match on Monday.

The 23-year-old all-rounder from Rajasthan recorded impressive figures of 6 for 33 over 22 overs, marking him as the 10th Indian bowler and the seventh spinner to secure a five-wicket haul on debut. His outstanding performance places him second in the record books for the best figures by an Indian bowler on debut, trailing only Narendra Hirwani's legendary 8 for 61 against the West Indies in 1988.

Afghanistan's Struggles on Day 3

Afghanistan began the day at 113 for 5 but faced significant challenges against India's disciplined bowling lineup. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna made an early impact by dismissing Azmatullah Omarzai for a duck, paving the way for Suthar to dominate the innings. In the morning session, Suthar took three crucial wickets, first sending Sharafuddin Ashraf back for 11 runs, followed by top scorer Rahmat Shah, who managed to score 60 runs.

Suthar completed his maiden five-wicket haul by trapping Mohammad Saleem Safi lbw and added one more wicket to finish with six. Afghanistan's innings concluded in 58.4 overs, leaving India with a commanding first-innings lead of 412 runs. The Indian team promptly enforced the follow-on, with head coach Gautam Gambhir and the support staff applauding Suthar as he returned to the dressing room after his stellar performance.

Suthar's Journey to the National Team

Manav Suthar's ascent to the national team has been fueled by consistent performances in domestic cricket. Over his career, he has participated in 29 first-class matches, taking 129 wickets at an average of 25.76, while also scoring 1,026 runs at an average of 25.65. Despite playing only three Ranji Trophy matches last season, he secured 18 wickets, including an impressive eight-wicket haul against Chhattisgarh. Additionally, he showcased his all-round capabilities with a notable performance against Himachal Pradesh, scoring 120 runs and taking seven wickets. His remarkable eight-wicket haul in an official Test match against Australia A further solidified his case for national selection.