Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
India vs Afghanistan Test action began with the hosts taking charge at 3-368 on day one at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, led by centuries from KL Rahul and Shubman Gill.
India won the toss and batted first in their one-off Test against Afghanistan, using the match as a chance to regain confidence before upcoming series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand.
For more Test cricket news, read Lord’s pitch under fire as England and New Zealand tumble through 17 wickets in chaotic Test.
Rahul Makes Afghanistan Pay
Rahul was given a major escape in the 11th over when Afghanistan did not review a clear edge, with replays later showing he would have been out.
The 34-year-old made full use of the chance, adding 139 with Sai Sudharsan after Yashasvi Jaiswal fell to Mohammad Saleem for 24.
Sudharsan made 81 before Saleem struck again, finding enough movement to draw an edge through to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai.
Rahul then put on 67 with captain Gill before reaching his 12th Test century from 165 balls. He was dismissed for exactly 100 from the next delivery, caught at extra cover off Ziaur Rahman.
"I'm really happy that I could get some time in the middle. To make that switch from T20 to Test cricket in a matter of a couple of days was the most pleasing thing," Rahul said.
"It was extremely hot, I was exhausted ... I had to make that switch of letting the ball go and getting used to the conditions.
"Sometimes you sit and over-analyse. I try to not restrict my shots. I played a few more shots in the morning than I would usually do, but it didn't frustrate me."
Gill Finishes Day Unbeaten
Gill stayed in control late in the day, reaching 103 not out for his 11th Test century.
Rishabh Pant added an unbeaten 50 as India pushed past 350 before stumps and tightened their grip on the match.
Official India cricket updates are available through the BCCI website.