India tightened their stranglehold over the West Indies in the opening Test, declaring at their overnight score of 448/5, to secure a commanding 286-run lead on Day 3.
Resuming from 121/2 on Day 2, KL Rahul ended his long wait for a home century with a patient 100 off 197 balls, his 11th Test hundred, while Shubman Gill added a fluent 98 before missing out on a three-figure score.
The highlight of India’s innings was the partnership between Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja, who stitched together a brilliant 206-run stand for the fifth wicket. Jurel registered his maiden Test century in just his sixth match, celebrating with a salute to the Indian Army, while Jadeja extended his sublime form with a sparkling 104, including five towering sixes — overtaking MS Dhoni’s record for the most sixes by an Indian in Test cricket.
India’s innings showcased both flair and discipline, featuring 45 boundaries and eight sixes across 128 overs at a steady run rate of 3.50. Rahul’s century celebration for his infant daughter, Jurel’s military salute, and Jadeja’s trademark sword celebration were standout moments that electrified fans.
The West Indies attack looked toothless, with their spinners unable to consistently capitalise on the rough patches despite signs of turn and bounce.
With a 286-run cushion and a pitch increasingly suited to spin, India is well poised to push for victory inside three days, setting themselves up for a dominant start in the World Test Championship cycle.
