K.L. Rahul turned back the clock at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, silencing his critics and delighting fans with a long-awaited Test hundred on home soil. The stylish right-hander reached the milestone on Day 2 of the first India vs West Indies Test, bringing up his century in 190 deliveries with a single off Windies skipper Roston Chase.
This was Rahul 11th Test hundred overall, but only his second on Indian soil, coming an astonishing 3211 days after his first home ton — a memorable 199 against England in Chennai back in December 2016.
Rahul holds India’s innings together
Opening the innings, K L Rahul looked determined right from the start. He first built a solid stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal, adding 68 runs for the opening wicket. Later, he combined with captain Shubman Gill for a crucial 98-run partnership, anchoring India’s innings through testing spells from the West Indies bowlers.
While other top-order batters struggled to convert starts, Rahul’s composure and shot selection stood out. His century was a reminder of why he remains one of India’s most technically sound and adaptable batsmen in the longest format.
11TH TEST HUNDREDS FOR MR CRISIS MAN OF INDIA, KL RAHUL. 🙇♂️
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) October 3, 2025
– The Emotional celebrations of Class KL. ❤️🥹
pic.twitter.com/FdqiQIZJyV
Rahul did ride his luck early in the day when, batting on 57, he edged a delivery that flew between wicketkeeper and slip — a chance that should have been taken. West Indies, however, paid a heavy price as Rahul capitalised, mixing patience with occasional flair to frustrate the visitors.
From soft hands in defense to elegant drives through cover, Rahul displayed the full range of his game, looking in complete control as he marched towards the milestone.
What made this knock even more special was the sheer gap between his home centuries. For a player who has enjoyed success in overseas conditions — with famous hundreds in England, Australia, and South Africa — Rahul’s inability to cross the three-figure mark in India for nearly a decade had become a curious blot on his record.
That wait is finally over, and in some style. The Ahmedabad crowd rose to its feet as Rahul removed his helmet, acknowledging the applause with a smile and a rather unique whistle celebration, which quickly went viral on social media.
Rahul’s ton has placed India in a commanding position in the opening Test. His ability to hold one end allowed India to build steadily against a spirited but inconsistent West Indies attack. With spin-friendly conditions expected to play a role later, Rahul’s innings could prove to be the backbone around which India push for victory.
For Rahul personally, this century is more than just numbers — it is a statement of resilience, patience, and belief. After years of ups and downs in red-ball cricket, he has once again reminded everyone why he remains central to India’s Test plans.
KL Rahul Test Centuries List
| Runs | Date | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| 110 | 6 January 2015 | vs Australia |
| 108 | 20 August 2015 | vs Australia |
| 158 | 30 August 2016 | vs West Indies |
| 199 | 16 December 2016 | vs England |
| 149 | 7 September 2018 | vs England |
| 129 | 12 August 2021 | vs England |
| 123 | 26 December 2021 | vs South Africa |
| 101 | 26 December 2023 | vs South Africa |
| 137 | 20 June 2025 | vs England |
| 100 | 10 July 2025 | vs England |
| 100* | 3 October 2025 | vs West Indies |
