India vs Afghanistan One‑Off Test – Day 2 Scorecard Highlights

Day two of the much‑anticipated one‑off Test between India and Afghanistan unfolded under a gentle summer sun at the iconic Eden Gardens. After a respectable 115‑run lead from the first innings, India entered the crease with a clear plan – build a sizable total while giving the visitors a taste of the pressure they will face later.

Ajinkya Rahane, who has been the quiet backbone of India's middle order, finally found his rhythm. After a start that seemed tentative, he settled in and coaxed a classy 66 off 112 balls. His innings was a mixture of elegant drives through the covers and a few handy cuts, the kind of knock that reminds you why he’s often the man you can trust when the team needs stability.

Backing Rahane, the spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin contributed a useful 23, and the younger guns like Shubman Gill, who already had a half‑century from the first innings, added a quick 12. By the close of play, India were 364 for six – a lead that, while not massive, gives them plenty of cushion heading into Afghanistan’s second innings.

On the Afghan side, the batting lineup looked far from wilted. After an early wicket, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Samiullah Shinwari took charge, stitching together a solid 95‑run partnership for the second wicket. Gurbaz’s 38 was marked by crisp footwork and a couple of well‑timed flicks, while Shinwari’s 27 provided the calm anchor they needed. The duo's effort kept the scoreboard ticking and, more importantly, ensured Afghanistan were not completely bowled out for a meagre total.

Afghanistan’s bowlers, especially spin bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, kept the Indian batsmen guessing. Though they couldn’t break through the middle order significantly, they did manage to snare a couple of crucial wickets, most notably that of wicket‑keeper Rishabh Pant, who fell for a low‑score of eight. The wicket‑keeper’s early dismissal added a hint of drama, suggesting the match could still swing either way.

As the sun set, the scene was set for a classic Test finale: India with a decent lead, Afghanistan resilient and refusing to capitulate, and both sides aware that the final result will hinge on how the bowlers perform in the remaining sessions. Fans can expect more grit, some thrilling spell‑work, and perhaps a few more surprises as the game marches towards its conclusion.