India vs West Indies 2nd Test is all but over, with the hosts needing a mere 58 runs on the final day to complete a dominant 2-0 series whitewash. After a resilient fightback from the Windies batters, India’s bowlers struck at crucial moments to set up a walk-in-the-park chase.
India vs West Indies: The Final Push
At stumps on Day 4 in Delhi, India were already 63/1 in their second innings, with KL Rahul (25*) and Sai Sudharsan (30*) at the crease . With only 58 more runs needed, victory is a formality unless weather intervenes. This win would not just seal the series but underscore India’s growing dominance at home in Test cricket.
West Indies’ Grit Meets India’s Precision
The Windies, to their credit, didn’t roll over. After being bowled out for 248 in their first innings, they showed remarkable resilience in the second. Openers John Campbell and Shai Hope both notched centuries, stitching together a 229-run stand that briefly gave fans hope . Campbell’s 115 and Hope’s 103 were masterclasses in concentration on a tricky pitch.
However, India’s bowling unit, led by the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah and the crafty Kuldeep Yadav, applied relentless pressure. The new ball once again proved decisive, as India chipped away at the lower order to restrict the West Indies to 390 in their second innings .
Key Performers: Who Made the Difference?
| Player | Role | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| John Campbell | Batter (WI) | 115 runs in 2nd innings |
| Shai Hope | Batter (WI) | 103 runs in 2nd innings |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Bowler (IND) | Crucial wickets with the new ball |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Bowler (IND) | Key breakthroughs in middle overs |
| KL Rahul & Sai Sudharsan | Batters (IND) | Unbroken 63-run stand to chase 121 |
Why This Pitch Was a Talking Point
The Delhi pitch offered a bit of everything—assistance for seamers early on, some turn for the spinners, and enough for batters who applied themselves. India’s first-innings total of 518/5 declared was built on a foundation of patience and skill, a stark contrast to the Windies’ first-innings collapse .
What’s Next for Both Teams?
A 2-0 series win will give India massive confidence heading into their next international assignment. For the West Indies, the tour has been a harsh reminder of the gulf in class in Test cricket. While their batting showed promise in patches, their inability to sustain pressure or build on starts remains a concern.
[INTERNAL_LINK:India Cricket Team] will look to wrap up the match quickly on Day 5, giving their bowlers some rest and allowing the team to celebrate a job well done.