New Delhi: Young opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal was in spectacular form on the first day of the Test match between India and West Indies at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground. Continuing his brilliant run Jaiswal smashed the seventh century of his Test career and remained unbeaten on 173 at the close of play. He was ably supported by No. 3 batsman B Sai Sudharsan who played a crucial innings of 87. Thanks to their efforts, India ended the day in a commanding position with a score of 318 for 2.
Jaiswal Shatters Records of Legends
This was another masterclass innings from Jaiswal, showcasing a perfect blend of patience and aggression. After a watchful start, he capitalized on the loose deliveries and gave the West Indies bowlers no chance to settle.
- A Flurry of Records: This was Jaiswal’s 7th Test hundred and for the fifth time, he has converted a century into a score of 150 or more.
- Equals Smith’s Feat: In terms of most centuries as an opener under the age of 24 he has equaled the record of former South African captain Graeme Smith.
- In the Club of Sachin & Bradman: For India only Sachin Tendulkar scored more centuries before turning 24. Furthermore he is now second only to the great Don Bradman for the most 150+ scores before reaching the age of 24.
Sai Sudharsan Stakes His Claim at No. 3
Captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bat first, but KL Rahul (38) once again fell to spinner Jomel Warrican. Sai Sudharsan who came to the crease under pressure to prove his mettle forged a magnificent 197-run partnership with Jaiswal. Sudharsan played a near-flawless innings of 87 from 165 balls, putting India in a strong position. He narrowly missed out on his century getting out LBW to a superb delivery from Warrican.
How Day 1 Unfolded
First Session: The West Indies bowlers remained disciplined and kept the Indian scoring rate in check.
Second Session: This session belonged entirely to India. Jaiswal and Sudharsan added 126 runs without losing a wicket as the West Indies bowlers completely lost their line and length.
Third Session: After tea, West Indies attempted a comeback controlling the flow of runs and claiming the important wicket of Sudharsan. However Jaiswal accelerated again towards the end of the day to take India past the 300-run mark.
At stumps,Yashasvi Jaiswal on 173 and captain Shubman Gill on 9 were at the crease. On Day 2, India will be looking to build a mammoth first-innings total while the West Indies will be hoping for early breakthroughs.
