In a remarkable display of skill and composure, 23-year-old left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made an immediate impact on his Test debut, leading India to a commanding position against Afghanistan in the one-off Test at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
**India’s Dominant First Innings**
The Indian team, captained by Shubman Gill, set a formidable total of 564/8 declared. The innings was anchored by Gill’s impressive 126 runs, supported by KL Rahul’s century. Middle-order contributions came from Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant, both scoring 81 runs each, while Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 52, marking his sixth Test fifty. Mohammed Siraj added a quickfire 22 off 12 balls, further bolstering India’s total. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Suthar’s Historic Debut Performance**
Suthar’s Test debut was nothing short of historic. On the second day of the match, with Afghanistan’s response underway, Suthar was introduced into the attack just before tea. In his very first over, he struck gold. Abdul Malik, attempting an aggressive sweep against the turning ball, top-edged it to backward square leg, where Mohammed Siraj took a sharp catch. This wicket made Suthar only the eighth Indian cricketer to claim a wicket in the first over of his Test career, a feat not achieved by an Indian in 25 years. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/dream-debut-manav-suthar-ends-25-year-wait-scripts-history-with-wicket-in-first-over-of-test-career/amp_articleshow/131565187.cms?utm_source=openai))
Suthar’s discipline and accuracy were evident as he bowled maiden after maiden, denying the Afghan batters any opportunity to settle. His relentless pressure led to the dismissal of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who edged a delivery to the slip cordon. Prasidh Krishna, the fast bowler, also made significant contributions, removing Sediqullah Atal with a sharp nip-backer that crashed into the stumps. Despite these breakthroughs, Rahmat Shah stood firm, reaching an unbeaten 43 runs by the close of play. This innings made him the first Afghanistan batter to surpass 1,000 Test runs. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Afghanistan’s Struggle and India’s Control**
Afghanistan’s innings faced further setbacks as Prasidh Krishna returned to bowl and immediately trapped Hashmatullah Shahidi lbw, deepening the visitors’ woes. Just before stumps, Suthar added to his tally by dismissing Afsar Zazai, who offered a simple return catch after closing the bat face too early. Suthar concluded the day with impressive figures of 3/21 from 15.5 overs, while Prasidh Krishna supported with 2/27. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav also maintained relentless pressure, ensuring Afghanistan never found any rhythm. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Mohammad Saleem Safi’s Efforts**
On the Afghan side, pacer Mohammad Saleem Safi was the standout performer. He claimed 6/140, marking his first wickets in international cricket after four wicketless appearances. Safi’s efforts were acknowledged as he raised the match ball in recognition of his six-wicket haul. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Looking Ahead**
At stumps on Day 2, Afghanistan was reeling at 113/5 in 39.5 overs, trailing by 451 runs. With half their side already back in the pavilion and the follow-on looming large, the visitors face an uphill battle. India, meanwhile, remain firmly in control and will look to complete the job quickly on Day 3. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-afghanistan/manav-suthar-stars-on-debut-as-india-leave-afghanistan-reeling-in-one-off-test/articleshow/131566670.cms?utm_source=openai))
Manav Suthar’s debut performance not only highlights his potential but also signifies a promising future for Indian cricket. His inclusion in the Test squad, following consistent domestic performances, underscores the selectors’ confidence in his abilities. As the match progresses, all eyes will be on Suthar and the Indian team to see if they can capitalize on this strong position and secure a comprehensive victory.
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