Day 3 of the first Test between India and the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad saw India in a commanding position after a dominant Day 2. India declared their first innings overnight at 448/5, establishing a substantial 286-run lead. The declaration puts immediate pressure on the West Indies batters as they begin their second innings.
On Day 2, centuries from KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Ravindra Jadeja put India in a strong position. KL Rahul scored his first home century after a long wait, contributing 100 runs. Dhruv Jurel also impressed with his maiden Test century.
Ravindra Jadeja reached a significant milestone, notching his sixth Test century. He became only the sixth player ever to score six or more Test hundreds while also taking over 300 wickets in the longest format. Jadeja also surpassed MS Dhoni to become India's fourth-highest six-hitter in Test cricket, with 79 sixes in 86 matches, going past Dhoni's record of 78 in 90 Tests. He now stands behind Virender Sehwag, Rishabh Pant and Rohit Sharma in the list of most Test sixes for India.
Jadeja's batting has evolved, making him a crucial part of the Indian setup in Test cricket. His innings against the West Indies was a counter-attacking knock that helped India increase their lead. Jadeja's aggressive intent was evident as he dispatched massive sixes over long-on and mid-on.
India's strong batting performance left the West Indies struggling to regain control. The West Indies bowling attack lacked the necessary energy and penetration to trouble the Indian batsmen consistently. India will aim to press their advantage and secure a big win.