India Dominates Day 1 of Test Against Afghanistan with Stellar Batting Display

On the first day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, India's top-order batsmen delivered an outstanding performance, amassing 368 runs. KL Rahul and Shubman Gill both scored centuries, while Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant contributed valuable half-centuries. The Afghan bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batsmen, leading to a day filled with boundaries. As India looks to declare early on Day 2, the focus will shift to their spin bowlers, including debutant Manav Suthar. Read on for a detailed recap of the match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 04:22 IST

India's Batting Brilliance on Day 1

On a sweltering Day 1 of their one-off Test, India's top-order batsmen showcased an impressive performance, leading the team to a formidable score of 368/3 against Afghanistan's lackluster bowling attack. KL Rahul and captain Shubman Gill both achieved centuries, while Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant contributed with half-centuries, allowing India to accumulate runs with relative ease.

Rahul marked his 12th Test century, scoring 100 runs off 165 balls, including 11 boundaries. Gill finished the day unbeaten on 103 from 143 deliveries, while Pant added 50 runs off 70 balls. Sudharsan scored 81 runs off 104 balls before being dismissed caught behind.

Gill's achievement made him the second-fastest Indian captain to reach 1000 Test runs, accomplishing this milestone in just 15 innings, trailing only Sunil Gavaskar, who did it in 14. Additionally, Pant became the third Indian wicketkeeper to reach the 50-Test milestone, joining the ranks of MS Dhoni and Syed Kirmani.

The inexperience of the Afghan bowlers was evident as they struggled to apply pressure on the Indian batsmen, allowing 42 boundaries and four sixes. Off-spinner Abdul Malik's six-over spell included four no-balls, highlighting the team's difficulties in maintaining rhythm. Mohammad Saleem emerged as their most effective bowler, while Ziaur Rahman posed challenges without significant success.

Considering the conditions, it is anticipated that India may not bat beyond a session and a half on the second day before declaring, aiming to test the Afghan side with their spin attack, including debutant Manav Suthar. Following the first day's play, Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar were seen inspecting the pitch closely.