How Did Jurel and Jadeja's Fifties Boost India's Lead Against West Indies?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dhruv Jurel scored an impressive 68 not out.
- Ravindra Jadeja contributed with a solid 50 not out.
- India holds a lead of 164 runs at tea.
- The partnership between Jurel and Jadeja was crucial, adding 108 runs.
- West Indies need a breakthrough to regain momentum.
Ahmedabad, Oct 3 (NationPress) Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja both scored unbeaten fifties, propelling India to a commanding lead of 164 runs at tea on the second day of the first Test against West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday.
As they headed into the tea break, India stood at 326/4 after 96 overs, with Jurel not out at 68 and Jadeja at 50. Their unbroken partnership of 108 runs has placed the hosts in a strong position.
The session started with a flicker of optimism for the West Indies when Jomel Warrican dismissed centurion KL Rahul for 100 on the very first ball after lunch. Rahul was caught at cover while attempting a loose drive, echoing a similar misstep he made during the Hyderabad Test against England in 2024 that swung the match.
However, India maintained their grip on the game, primarily due to Jurel, who struck boundaries to the off-side. Jadeja also made his mark by hitting four sixes off Warrican, cleverly using his feet to counter the left-arm spinner.
Jurel, given the opportunity to play due to Rishabh Pant's injury, displayed both poise and skill, adeptly handling reverse swing and spin. His defense was tested by Jayden Seales, who found movement with the older ball, yet Jurel remained resolute, gaining confidence after surviving an lbw appeal.
The West Indies' choice to postpone taking the second new ball was puzzling; sticking with the old ball allowed India to dominate.
Warrican varied his deliveries and challenged the batsmen with changes in pace and trajectory, but Jadeja’s footwork and aggression neutralized him. Jurel, coming off a solid 140 against Australia A, showcased his remarkable batting technique and defensive skills, as India added 108 runs in the second session with only Rahul's wicket lost.
With six wickets remaining and two well-set batsmen on a pitch beginning to deteriorate, India aims to accelerate after tea. The West Indies, still holding off the new ball, urgently need a breakthrough to avoid losing control of the match.
Brief Scores: West Indies 162 in 44.1 overs (Justin Greaves 32; Mohammed Siraj 4-40) trail India 326/4 in 96 overs (KL Rahul 100, Dhruv Jurel 68 not out; Roston Chase 2-63, Jayden Seales 1-46) by 164 runs