Kohli Century Anchors Clinical Run Chase
India opened their three-match ODI series against the West Indies with a statement victory at the Sports Hub International Cricket Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Chasing a competitive target of 296, the hosts cruised to a comfortable eight-wicket win, thanks to a sublime unbeaten 139 from Virat Kohli. The result hands India a 1-0 lead in the series, setting the tone for the remainder of the tour.
The chase began with intent, but the momentum shifted when captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed with the score at 74 in the 12th over. Rather than allowing the West Indies to build pressure, Kohli took control of the innings. Alongside Shubman Gill, who provided steady support, Kohli dismantled the visiting bowling attack with a display of precision and power. His 139 runs came off just 88 balls, ensuring India reached their target of 300/2 with plenty of time to spare.
Kuldeep Yadav Restricts West Indies
Earlier in the day, India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to field, a decision that paid dividends through the middle overs. West Indies posted a respectable 295/7 from their 50 overs, anchored by a brilliant century from Justin Greaves. Greaves struck 101 off 108 balls, while John Campbell provided a valuable contribution of 62 from 60 deliveries to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Despite the solid foundation laid by the West Indies top order, the Indian bowling unit remained disciplined throughout the innings. Kuldeep Yadav proved to be the standout performer, dismantling the middle order with a masterful spell of 4/40 from his 10 overs. His ability to break key partnerships prevented the visitors from accelerating in the final stages of their innings. Prasidh Krishna also played a vital role in the bowling effort, providing consistent pressure that helped restrict the West Indies to a total that ultimately proved insufficient against India’s aggressive batting lineup.
