India Moves Closer to Series Victory Against West Indies

India is on the brink of clinching a series victory against the West Indies, needing just 58 runs to secure a 2-0 lead in the second Test. At the end of day four, India reached 63-1, with Lokesh Rahul remaining not out on 25 and Sai Sudharsan contributing an unbeaten 30 from 47 balls. The match is being held in New Delhi, and India has the opportunity to finish the game on the final day.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, a standout performer in the first innings with a score of 175, fell early for eight runs after India was set a target of 121. Although there was a provision for a 30-minute extension of play if India came close to victory, it was ultimately unnecessary as they remained focused on their goal.

In response to India’s first innings total of 518-5 declared, the West Indies posted 390 runs in their second innings. Shai Hope achieved his first Test century in eight years, scoring 103 runs, while John Campbell also celebrated his maiden Test hundred with an impressive 115 runs. Their partnership was critical, as they added 177 runs together, allowing the West Indies to reduce their deficit to just 18 runs by lunchtime, with a score of 252-3.

Campbell’s wicket fell shortly before lunch when he was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, who finished with figures of 1-102. Following this, Mohammed Siraj bowled out Hope, leading to a collapse within the West Indies lineup. Hope’s innings included 12 fours and two sixes from 214 balls. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav made a significant impact, taking three wickets in quick succession and ending the innings with a total of eight wickets.

The West Indies headed into the tea break at 361-9 after a 30-minute extension, as Justin Greaves and Jaydon Seales added valuable runs to frustrate the Indian bowling attack. Ultimately, Jasprit Bumrah wrapped up the innings with figures of 3-44, leaving India with the challenge of batting again after enforcing the follow-on—a rare occurrence since it has only happened four times since 1961.

The ongoing match marks a continuation of the West Indies’ struggles against India, having not secured a victory against them in their last 26 encounters, whether at home or away, dating back to 2002. India dominated the first Test in Ahmedabad, winning by an innings and 40 runs.

As the final day approaches, the anticipation builds for what could be another historic victory for India in their cricketing saga against the West Indies.