In a consistent bowling display, the West Indies struck four crucial blows to leave India struggling at 182 for four at tea on the opening day of the second Test. The Indian batsmen had a strong start, but the runs dried up in the afternoon session, with only 61 runs scored in 24.4 overs.
The dismissals included India’s skipper Rohit Sharma (80 off 143), Yashasvi Jaiswal (57 off 74), Shubman Gill (10 off 12), and Ajinkya Rahane (8 off 36), who fell at the stroke of tea. The West Indies bowlers executed their plan with precision and purpose, exhibiting the discipline that had been missing in the first session.Jason Holder, who had an opportunity to dismiss Jaiswal at first slip just before lunch, eventually managed to get rid of the talented left-hander by luring him into an expansive drive. The decision to push the fielder back to the gully after a few balls had flown over him in the morning paid off, as Jaiswal mistimed the drive, and debutant Kirk McKenzie took a sharp catch.
Rohit Sharma’s dismissal was a significant breakthrough for the West Indies, as the Indian captain had looked well set and was leading the charge for his team. However, his departure provided the Caribbean bowlers with the much-needed boost to keep the pressure on the remaining batsmen.,Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had played some elegant strokes and showed glimpses of his immense talent, was also a prized scalp for the West Indies. His dismissal further boosted the confidence of the bowlers and put India on the backfoot.
Shubman Gill’s early exit was another setback for the Indian team, as the young opener had the ability to stabilize the innings and build partnerships. Ajinkya Rahane’s dismissal just before tea was a crucial breakthrough for the West Indies, as the experienced batsman had the capability to anchor the innings and guide India to a respectable total. His departure left the Indian team with some rebuilding to do in the final session.
The West Indies bowlers deserve credit for their consistent and controlled performance, making the most of their opportunities and executing their plans effectively. They managed to keep the Indian batsmen in check and capitalized on the occasional loose shots to secure important wickets.With plenty of cricket left in the Test match, both teams will be eager to seize the momentum and gain an advantage in the series. The West Indies will be determined to build on their strong performance in the second session, while India will be aiming to stage a comeback and post a competitive total in their first innings.
The remainder of the Test promises to be an enthralling battle between bat and ball, and cricket fans can expect more twists and turns as the match progresses. The West Indies will be looking to maintain their stronghold on the game, while India will be eager to mount a fightback and showcase their resilience in adverse conditions.
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh , 20 July 2023
