India continued their commanding display on Day 2 of the second Test against West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, ending the day firmly in control. The hosts posted a mammoth 518/5 (D) in their first innings before their bowlers, led by Ravindra Jadejawreaked havoc to leave the visitors reeling at 140/4, still trailing by 378 runs.

Shubman Gill leads from the front with a majestic century

Skipper Shubman Gill once again proved why he’s considered one of India’s brightest young talents. The right-hander, who resumed the day on 92, went on to craft an unbeaten 129-run masterpiece, filled with exquisite timing and composure. His innings featured 16 fours and two sixes, as he anchored India’s batting and ensured a declaration at a time that suited the team’s bowling plans.

Gill’s calm and calculated approach underlined his growing maturity as a leader. He took his time early in the day before accelerating post-lunch, finding boundaries with ease on both sides of the wicket. His ability to rotate strike and build partnerships made the innings all the more impactful.

India’s batting charge was initially driven by Yashasvi jaiswalwho started Day 2 on 173 but was unfortunately dismissed after a mix-up with Gill. Attempting a quick single, Jaiswal fell short of the crease by inches, walking back heartbroken for 175. Despite missing out on a double hundred, the left-hander’s innings provided the perfect foundation for India’s huge first-innings total.

Following Jaiswal’s dismissal, Nitish Reddy (43) and Dhruv Jurel (44) played vital cameos, ensuring the momentum stayed with India. Their partnerships with Gill helped the hosts stretch past the 500-run mark before Gill decided to declare at 518/5.

Ravindra Jadeja spins web around West Indies batters

In reply, the West Indies batters struggled to find rhythm against India’s quality spin attack. Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show, claiming three wickets to dismantle the Caribbean top order. His accuracy, flight, and subtle variations made batting a nightmare for the visitors.

Jadeja’s ability to exploit the pitch’s rough spots resulted in early breakthroughs, while the rest of India’s bowling unit maintained relentless pressure. At stumps, West Indies were precariously placed at 140/4, with John Campbell’s freak dismissal off a Jadeja delivery – caught by Sai Sudharsan in an unbelievable reflex effort – being one of the highlights of the day. Shai Hope (31 not out) and Tevin Imlach (14 not out) remained unbeaten on the second day.

With a massive lead already in hand and momentum heavily tilted in their favour, India are poised to push for victory on Day 3. The visitors, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to avoid a follow-on and keep the series alive.

Also WATCH: Sai Sudharsan grabs a freak catch at slog sweep to dismiss John Campbell on Day 2 of Delhi Test

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