India produced a batting masterclass in Guwahati on Wednesday, successfully chasing down a daunting target of 406 to secure an eight-wicket victory over the West Indies. The win gives the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with the result marked by a record-shattering performance from captain
Gill anchored the chase with an unbeaten 223 off just 133 balls, recording the fastest double century in the history of One Day Internationals. Supported by Rohit Sharma, who contributed a rapid 101 off 75 deliveries, the pair laid the foundation for the victory with a commanding 255-run opening partnership. India reached their target of 406 for two in just 43.3 overs, finishing with 39 balls to spare.
A Historic Chase and Individual Brilliance
The victory marks only the second time in men's ODI history that a team has successfully chased a target of 400 or more, joining South Africa’s famous 438-run chase against Australia in 2006. Gill’s innings, which included 26 fours and eight sixes, stands as the highest individual score in an ODI chase and the highest ever by a captain in the format. Despite battling cramps and neck pain, the 27-year-old maintained his intensity to reach his 11th ODI century in his 69th appearance.
While the batting conditions in Guwahati were favorable, the chase required immense discipline and physical endurance. Rohit Sharma, the only other player to have recorded multiple double-centuries in the format, provided the perfect foil for Gill. On the bowling front, Kuldeep Yadav claimed 2-65, a spell that saw him become the second-fastest Indian bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets. Naman Dhir also contributed 6.1 overs before an injury forced him from the field.
West Indies' Record Total in Vain
The high-scoring encounter began with the West Indies posting their highest-ever ODI total of 405 for seven. The visitors were propelled by a historic display of batting, featuring three separate centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope, and Amir Jangoo. It was the first time in the history of West Indies cricket that three players scored centuries in the same ODI innings.
Campbell set an aggressive tone early, racing to a 65-ball century and finishing with 101 off 68 deliveries. Captain Shai Hope, who was dropped on 27 by Virat Kohli, capitalized on the opportunity to score 104 off 94 balls. Jangoo provided the final flourish, striking 114 off 83 balls. Despite their strong start, the West Indies managed only 82 runs for the loss of five wickets in the final 11 overs, a late-innings slowdown that ultimately proved costly as India accelerated to victory.
