India showcased their dominance over West Indies as they sealed a comprehensive series victory with a resounding 200-run win in the third ODI at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Tobago. Led by a formidable bowling performance from pacers Mukesh Kumar and Shardul Thakur, India bundled out the hosts for a mere 151 runs to secure their triumph.
Opting to bat first, India, missing regular skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, compiled an imposing total of 351 runs. Openers Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill set the tone for the innings with a commanding 143-run partnership within the first 20 overs. Kishan displayed his brutal hitting prowess, particularly unleashing the pull shot, while West Indies briefly found hope after dismissing Kishan and No. 3 batter Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, Sanju Samson and Gill steadied the ship, with Samson wasting no time in dispatching three sixes in just 13 balls. Despite a slowdown in the scoring rate following the dismissals of Samson and Gill, stand-in captain Hardik Pandya finished on a high by unleashing a flurry of boundaries in the death overs, propelling India past the 350-run mark.
In reply, West Indies encountered a tumultuous start, losing three crucial wickets within the first seven overs, thanks to the accuracy and persistence of pacer Mukesh Kumar. Fellow pacers Shardul Thakur and Jaydev Unadkat further dismantled the home side’s batting lineup with a couple more dismissals, effectively sealing the fate of the match. Although Gudakesh Motie and Alzarri Joseph temporarily delayed the inevitable with some powerful hits, Thakur returned to mop up the tail and claim an impressive four-wicket haul. India’s victory margin of 200 runs marked their second-largest win against West Indies in this format.
India’s triumph in the series showcases their strength and depth in both batting and bowling departments, even in the absence of key players. The comprehensive nature of their victory further solidifies their position as one of the most dominant teams in international cricket. West Indies, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their shortcomings to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
Overall, it was a commanding performance by India, who displayed their prowess in all aspects of the game. Their comprehensive series win serves as a testament to their formidable skills and team unity. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the next chapter in this riveting rivalry, India can bask in the glory of their dominant victory over West Indies.
