In a dominant batting display, India opted to declare on their overnight score of 448 for 5, setting West Indies a daunting 286-run deficit as play resumed on the third day of the opening Test in Ahmedabad. 

The hosts’ innings was powered by three unforgettable centuries: KL Rahul top-scored with a calculated 100, Dhruv Jurel scored a composed 125 for his maiden Test ton, and Ravindra Jadeja, unbeaten on 104, smashed five sixes in his knock.  Jurel and Jadeja shared a pivotal 206-run stand for the fifth wicket, firmly tilting the momentum in India’s favour. 

Early on day three, India struck quickly - Mohammed Siraj removed Tagenarine Chanderpaul, and Jadeja trapped John Campbell for 14 - reducing West Indies to 24/2 and intensifying the uphill battle for the visitors. 

With a giant lead and a bowler-friendly pitch ahead, India sit in complete control of the contest, eyeing a likely victory inside three days.