Manav Suthar Shines on Test Debut as Afghanistan's Saleem Claims Five Wickets
Day 2 Highlights of the One-Off Test
On Day 2 of the one-off Test, Mohammad Saleem made history by becoming Afghanistan's third bowler to achieve a five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Meanwhile, Indian debutant Manav Suthar captured attention with his impressive performance.
It was a challenging day for the Afghan team, who faced a formidable Indian batting lineup that declared their innings at a staggering 564/8, marking their highest total against Afghanistan in this format. Saleem concluded his spell with figures of 6/140, while Suthar ended the day with 3/21, helping India restrict Afghanistan to 113/5 at stumps.
Suthar's classical left-arm spin, combined with a well-structured field, made his debut memorable. His bowling style, reminiscent of former Indian spinner Maninder Singh, featured a diagonal run-up that effectively targeted right-handed batsmen. His high release point and various deliveries kept the ball airborne before it drifted towards off stump.
Suthar quickly made an impact, claiming his first wicket in his opening over by dismissing opener Abdul Malik, who attempted a sweep but was caught by Mohammed Siraj.
His second wicket came from a well-executed delivery that deceived Rahmanullah Gurbaz, resulting in a catch to Sai Sudharsan. Suthar's final wicket of the day was Afsar Zazai, who misplayed a loopy delivery, leading to an easy return catch.
Bowling consistently for 13 overs from one end, Suthar was supported by skipper Shubman Gill, who rotated bowlers like Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Kuldeep Yadav from the other end. Krishna finished with 2/27, including the crucial wicket of Hashmatullah Shahidi.
Earlier in the innings, Rishabh Pant showcased his skills with a dynamic 81 runs, silencing critics despite missing out on a century. His innings, which spanned 121 balls, was filled with signature strokes until he was dismissed while attempting a six off debutant spinner Nangeyalia Kharote.
In the first hour of the second day, Gill scored 126 runs off 177 balls before Dhruv Jurel fell shortly after a promising start. Washington Sundar and Suthar then contributed 54 runs for the seventh wicket, pushing the team past the 500-run mark before the Indian batters were called back.
Saleem, who had missed last year's action due to a groin injury, made a remarkable comeback, taking six wickets in his second Test match, including key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.