In a decisive display of cricketing prowess, India inaugurated their ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 campaign with a compelling three-day triumph over West Indies. The Indian team demonstrated a commanding performance, accumulating a praiseworthy 12 points to their championship account.
The Windies, who began with the toss advantage, unfortunately let slip a golden opportunity by pursuing an excessively aggressive strategy. This approach culminated in a subpar first-innings total of 150. Meanwhile, debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal capitalized on the excellent batting conditions, crafting a patient 171-run innings. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also made noteworthy contributions of 103 and 76 runs respectively, with India declaring at an imposing 421 for 5.
As the pitch began to deteriorate, Ravi Ashwin’s masterclass bowling proved too much for the Windies to resist, despite Alick Athanaze’s composed batting display. The pitch, favoring Ashwin and Jadeja’s turn and bounce skills, dictated the match’s rhythm, nudging India closer to victory.
Ashwin’s seven-wicket haul ensured the match’s conclusion on the third day, handing West Indies one of their heaviest test match defeats by an innings and 141 runs. This result unfolded amidst a bustling crowd at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, leaving a bitter taste for the hosts.
West Indies captain, Kraigg Braithwaite, voiced disappointment at the team’s batting performance. In contrast, India’s Rohit Sharma celebrated the victory, expressing anticipation for continued dominance in the upcoming Trinidad test match.
The action now moves to Trinidad, setting the stage for the eagerly-awaited second and final test match of the series.
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