Team India has fortified its position against the West Indies in the Ahmedabad Test match. It appears that the result might be decided today (October 4), on the third day. Indian bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, swiftly wrapping up the West Indies' first innings for just 162 runs.
The Indian batsmen then showcased a brilliant display in their first innings. Team India has moved into a strong position, making victory over the visitors seem all but certain. By the close of play on the second day, India's score was 448 for 5 wickets. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten at 104, with Washington Sundar on 9.
Read more: Dhruv Jurel celebrates century with a gun salute, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja shine, VIDEO
India's lead has now ballooned to 286 runs. In India's first innings, KL Rahul (100 runs) and Dhruv Jurel (125 runs) also scored centuries. Captain Shubman Gill contributed 50 runs, while Yashasvi Jaiswal made 36 and Sai Sudarshan scored 7.
West Indies Bowlers Lackluster
The second day was uneventful for the West Indies team. Their bowlers showed a noticeable lack of confidence. Only fast bowler Jayden Seales managed to make some impact, while the spin attack was underwhelming. Ravindra Jadeja extensively targeted Jomel Warrican, hitting five sixes against him. Neither Khary Pierre nor captain Roston Chase's spin proved effective. Chase's decision to delay taking the new ball was perplexing.
The West Indies opted to bat first after winning the toss, seemingly stepping onto the field with ambition. However, this was not reflected in performance. The West Indies batting line-up surrendered in the first innings, resulting in their disadvantage in the match.
Read more: No crowds, no excitement... Who watches the West Indies play? Once feared worldwide, now declining
In India, if a team fails to post a sizeable score in the first innings of a Test match, mounting a comeback is incredibly difficult. In the West Indies’ initial innings, only Justin Greaves (32 runs), Shai Hope (26 runs), and captain Roston Chase (24 runs) managed to add to the scoreboard. For India, pace bowler Mohammed Siraj took 4 wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah claimed 3, Kuldeep Yadav took 2, and Washington Sundar clinched 1 wicket.
Once Unstoppable, Now Faltering
To reflect, since May 2002, the West Indies has not defeated India in Test cricket. Once a formidable force in the cricket world, the team now looks overwhelmed. This touring West Indies squad appears to be the weakest to come to India. Lacking experience in batting and undermined by injuries to key fast bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, unable to join the tour, has unbalanced the team further.
