India produced a blistering start in the fifth T20I against the West Indies, setting a new national record for the
Despite the explosive beginning, the series decider was ultimately cut short by persistent rain. With the match abandoned, the five-match series concluded in a 2-2 stalemate, denying both sides a definitive result in the final encounter.
Record-breaking start and middle-order resistance
The Indian innings began with immediate intent, racing to 14 runs in the opening over despite the early loss of Abhishek. The momentum shifted significantly in the second over when Ishan Kishan targeted Romario Shepherd, accumulating 24 runs to propel the team score to 38/1. The record was secured shortly after when Sanju Samson struck a boundary off Shamar Joseph, bringing up the team fifty in only 17 deliveries.
Following the initial surge, the West Indies managed to regain control by taking regular wickets. Kishan was dismissed for 30, followed by Samson for 16. Shreyas Iyer struggled to settle, contributing 22 runs from 14 balls, while Tilak Varma fell for seven as Shamar Springer claimed two wickets to stifle the Indian momentum.
Late fireworks and the final washout
Naman Dhir provided a vital late-innings spark after arriving at the crease in the seventh over. He immediately attacked Keemo Paul, hitting a six and a four, before clearing the ropes again against Springer. His aggressive cameo saw him reach 17 runs off just four balls, helping India surpass the 100-run mark in the seventh over.
India were positioned at 108/5 after 7.4 overs when the dismissal of Varma occurred. As the weather conditions worsened, officials attempted to salvage the game by reducing the contest to a five-over chase, with the West Indies set a target of 85 runs. However, the rain proved persistent, leading to the players shaking hands and the match being officially abandoned, confirming the series result at 2-2.
