India’s batting lineup delivered a clinical performance in Ranchi on Friday, setting a daunting target of 250 in the second T20I against the West Indies. Following this explosive display, pace sensation
After being invited to bat first by West Indies captain Shai Hope, India posted a formidable 249/5, marking their highest-ever T20I total against the Caribbean side. The innings was anchored by Sanju Samson, who struck a rapid 82 off 41 balls, while Ishan Kishan provided a solid 43 off 22. Late-order momentum was maintained by Shreyas Iyer, who contributed 40 off 18, and Tilak Varma, who remained unbeaten on 44 from just 18 deliveries.
Mayank Yadav’s Powerplay Destruction
Facing a massive required run rate, the West Indies needed an aggressive start, but Mayank Yadav immediately stifled their momentum. The pacer struck twice in his opening over, beginning with the wicket of Kamil Pooran, who top-edged a 143kmph delivery to a diving Ravi Bishnoi at midwicket. The very next ball, Mayank shattered the stumps of Shimron Hetmyer with a 144kmph delivery that jagged back sharply, dismissing the batter for a golden duck and reducing the visitors to 5/2.
Mayank returned in the final over of the powerplay to claim his third scalp, producing a delivery clocked at 149.5kmph. The ball proved too quick for Rovman Powell, who attempted a heave across the line only to see the ball brush his pad and crash into the off stump. Powell departed for 24 off 13 balls, leaving the West Indies at 72/3 after six overs. Mayank concluded his initial burst with impressive figures of 3/36.
A Record-Breaking Total
India’s total of 249/5 surpassed their previous record against the West Indies, which stood at 244/4 from a 2016 encounter in Lauderhill. The batting unit’s ability to maintain a high scoring rate throughout the innings provided the necessary cushion for the bowlers to attack the West Indies lineup from the first ball.
While the West Indies attempted a counterattack, the early damage inflicted by Mayank’s express pace ensured they remained on the back foot throughout the opening exchanges. The result of the match hinges on whether the visitors can recover from the early loss of three key wickets against India’s imposing total.
