Delhi, 12 October (H.S.): Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill led the charge with his tenth Test century, steering India to a commanding first innings score of 518 for five declared in the second Test against the West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Gill’s masterful unbeaten 129 runs exemplified controlled aggression and tactical acumen, as he batted with a perfect balance of restraint and firepower, seamlessly coordinating his role as both the team’s skipper and top batter.

Ravindra Jadeja was the maestro with the ball, weaving magic to claim three crucial wickets for 37 runs, shattering the West Indies’ resolve after they had started their second innings. Jadeja’s incisive spells, complemented by Kuldeep Yadav’s tight bowling, reduced the visitors to 140 for four by stumps on day two, trailing India by a formidable 378 runs.

The West Indies showed momentary resistance through a gritty partnership between Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze, but quick breakthroughs by Jadeja and Yadav curtailed their hopes of batting long against the dominant Indian side. The crowd, including legendary former players such as Viv Richards and Brian Lara, witnessed the Indian team’s clinical approach as they built towards an inevitable victory.

The match has set the stage for day three with India clearly in control, aiming to wrap up the series with another comprehensive win following their innings victory in the first Test at Ahmedabad. Gill’s form and leadership, along with Jadeja’s all-round brilliance, highlight India’s strength and the growing depth of their squad in home conditions.

This commanding performance not only exhibits the strategic prowess of the Indian team but also raises expectations for further domination as the series progresses. The West Indies face a tough task ahead, needing resilience and improved execution to counter India’s imposing stance.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar