How did Jaiswal's unbeaten 173 lead India on Day 1?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 173 not out, showcasing his batting prowess.
- India reached a strong position at 318/2 by the end of Day 1.
- Key partnerships were formed, particularly the 193-run stand between Jaiswal and Sudharsan.
- Jaiswal's performance marks his fifth score of over 150 in Test cricket.
- India's batting strategy involved cautious play followed by aggressive boundary hitting.
New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) Yashasvi Jaiswal achieved a remarkable feat, scoring 173 not out as India asserted their dominance on the first day of the second and final Test against the West Indies, finishing at 318/2 in 90 overs at stumps at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday.
After winning the toss, Jaiswal and KL Rahul formed a steady partnership, adding 58 runs before the latter was dismissed. Jaiswal then built a significant 193-run alliance with B Sai Sudharsan, who contributed 87 runs, marking his first Test fifty on Indian soil.
Jaiswal accelerated after lunch, reaching his century with flair, initially playing conservatively and capitalizing on loose deliveries.
The scoring slowed in the final session, yet India maintained a strong grip on the game. Jaiswal notched up his fifth score of over 150 in his budding Test career and seems ready for more on Day 2, with captain Shubman Gill also looking solid on 20 not out.
The third session commenced explosively as Jaiswal drove Roston Chase through the covers for four runs, followed by Sudharsan elegantly driving for another boundary. However, Sudharsan's innings ended at 87 when he was trapped lbw by Jomel Warrican, who bowled a sharp spinning delivery.
Sudharsan opted for a review towards the end, but replays validated the decision, sending him back to the pavilion just 13 runs short of a maiden Test century. Gill lit up the scene with two exquisite slog sweeps off Khary Pierre, while Jaiswal exuded confidence, driving and cutting effectively for boundaries.
Jaiswal secured his fifth score of over 150 with a flick off his pads on his 224th ball, raising his bat to acknowledge the cheers from teammates and fans. As the West Indies took the second new ball, Jaiswal and Gill showed caution before resuming their boundary-hitting ways.
Gill executed a sublime drive wide of mid-off, while Jaiswal played a deft backfoot cut past the diving third man, followed by another boundary past backward point and a stunning cover drive, ensuring India concluded the day in a commanding position.
Brief Scores: India 318/2 in 90 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 173 not out, B Sai Sudharsan 87; Jomel Warrican 2-60) against West Indies