India’s Spinners Leave Afghanistan Fighting for Survival
India tightened their grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur as a relentless spin attack pushed the visitors to the brink of an innings defeat. After being bowled out for just 152 in their first innings, Afghanistan were forced to follow on, trailing by a massive 412 runs. While the visitors showed some resistance early in their second innings, India’s bowlers remain firmly in control of the contest.
The story of the match has been the dominance of India’s spin department, led by debut sensation Manav Suthar and supported by the experienced Kuldeep Yadav. Together, they have exposed Afghanistan’s batting vulnerabilities and left the visitors facing an enormous challenge to stay alive in the game.
Afghanistan’s First Innings Falls Apart
Afghanistan’s innings began with some promise as openers Sediqullah Atal and Rahmanullah Gurbaz looked to provide a solid platform. However, that optimism quickly faded once India’s bowlers settled into their rhythm.
Gurbaz struggled to score freely, managing only 7 runs from 33 deliveries before eventually falling under pressure. The cautious approach reflected the control India had established with both pace and spin.
The middle order failed to provide meaningful support. Wickets fell regularly, partnerships never developed, and Afghanistan soon found themselves in survival mode rather than looking to reduce the deficit.
Rahmat Shah was the lone bright spot in the batting lineup. The experienced batter displayed patience and determination to score a fighting 60 from 135 balls. He resisted longer than anyone else and attempted to anchor the innings, but once he departed, the collapse became inevitable.
Afghanistan’s innings eventually ended at 152 in just 44.4 overs, leaving them with an enormous mountain to climb.
Manav Suthar Continues Dream Debut
Much of the credit for Afghanistan’s collapse belongs to debutant spinner Manav Suthar.
The young left-arm spinner has enjoyed a dream introduction to Test cricket and delivered another outstanding performance with the ball. His figures of 6/33 highlighted not only his skill but also his composure under pressure.
Suthar consistently challenged the batters with sharp turn, clever variations, and excellent control. Rather than allowing Afghanistan to settle, he kept creating opportunities and forcing mistakes.
For a player making his Test debut, his maturity has been remarkable. Every spell has demonstrated confidence and discipline, qualities that are often associated with far more experienced international cricketers.
His performance has already become one of the standout stories of the match.
Afghanistan Missing Key Spin Stars
A major talking point throughout the Test has been the absence of Afghanistan’s frontline spin attack.
Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad were unavailable due to franchise cricket commitments, leaving Afghanistan without three of their most influential bowlers.
Their absence has had a significant impact on the balance of the side. Not only did Afghanistan lose proven wicket-taking options, but they also missed valuable experience in conditions that traditionally suit spin bowling.
Against a strong Indian team in home conditions, the lack of their premier spinners has been impossible to ignore.
Atal Shows Some Fight
Despite the difficult circumstances, Afghanistan displayed greater intent in their second innings.
Sediqullah Atal adopted an aggressive approach from the outset and looked determined to put pressure back on India’s bowlers. Rather than allowing the spinners to dictate terms, he used his feet confidently and played several attacking shots.
His quick 16 runs from just 12 deliveries included boundaries and a six, giving Afghanistan some much-needed momentum. More importantly, his positive mindset helped the visitors reach lunch on Day 3 without losing a wicket.
While the scoreboard still heavily favoured India, Atal’s approach showed that Afghanistan were not prepared to surrender without a fight.
The Mountain Ahead
Even with a better start in the second innings, Afghanistan remain in a precarious position.
The pitch continues to offer assistance for spin, and India’s bowlers have shown no signs of easing the pressure. Every session becomes increasingly important as the visitors attempt to avoid an innings defeat.
To have any chance of extending the match, Afghanistan need substantial partnerships and long periods of concentration against a bowling attack full of confidence.
India, meanwhile, know they are only a few breakthroughs away from complete control. With Manav Suthar growing stronger with every spell and the rest of the bowling unit maintaining relentless pressure, the hosts remain overwhelming favourites.
Unless Afghanistan can produce something extraordinary with the bat, India look firmly on course for a dominant victory in Mullanpur.
Written by 8JJsports.com | June 08,2026
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