![Saleem Safi removes Dhruv Jurel [Source: X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1780814116207_DhruvJurel.jpg?type=hq)
Saleem Safi removes Dhruv Jurel [Source: X.com]
Afghanistan’s right-arm pacer Mohammad Saleem Safi produced a fiery spell after dismissing Dhruv Jurel during the second day of the only Test between India and Afghanistan.
The match is taking place at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, the hosts put together an impressive batting performance. At the end of Day 1, India had reached 368/3 in 85 overs.
The batting unit looked in complete control, thanks to brilliant centuries from KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. In addition, Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant made valuable contributions with their half-centuries. As a result, Afghanistan faced a difficult challenge heading into Day 2.
Afghanistan Find Hope With The New Ball
India resumed Day 2 at 368/3 and looked set to build an even bigger total. Meanwhile, Afghanistan decided to take the second new ball early in the morning session. This move finally brought some success for the visitors.
Azmat Omarzai produced two excellent deliveries that appeared good enough to dismiss both Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Gill was struck on the pads, while Pant edged one behind the stumps. However, the umpire ruled both decisions not out.
Furthermore, Afghanistan chose not to use the DRS on either occasion. At that stage, India still looked firmly in control of the contest.
Saleem Safi Turns The Match Around
Soon after, Saleem Safi entered the attack and completely changed the momentum. The right-arm pacer regularly bowled above 135 kph and troubled the Indian batters with his pace and movement.
His first major breakthrough came when he dismissed Shubman Gill, who had played a magnificent knock of 126 runs. Following that wicket, Dhruv Jurel walked out to the crease and immediately looked confident.
In the 102nd over, Dhruv Jurel attacked Safi and struck a boundary with a powerful pull shot. The ball was short and outside off stump, allowing the batter to hit it comfortably through the leg side. As a result, it seemed that Jurel was ready to continue his aggressive approach.
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Saleem Safi Gets His Revenge In Style
However, Saleem Safi responded in the perfect manner. On the next delivery after being hit for four, he produced a brilliant delivery that sent Dhruv Jurel back to the pavilion.
Notably, Saleem Safi delivered a good-length ball that moved back sharply into the batter. Jurel decided to leave the delivery, expecting it to pass outside the off stump. Instead, the ball came in and clipped the top of the off stump.
The young batter stood in disbelief after the mistake. His promising innings ended at 19 runs from 20 balls. Consequently, India lost their fifth wicket.
Safi celebrated the dismissal with great energy and emotion. The pacer looked thrilled after claiming his fourth wicket of the innings.
Watch the video here:
Afghanistan Gain Momentum Before Lunch On Day 2
The wicket lifted Afghanistan’s spirits significantly. The visitors looked more confident and continued to apply pressure on the Indian batting line-up. Shortly afterward, Rishabh Pant also lost his wicket after scoring an impressive 81 runs from 121 balls.
Therefore, Afghanistan enjoyed a productive session with the ball. At lunch on Day 2, India are 475/6.
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