New Delhi (India News Reporter): In a display of sheer dominance that set the tone for the series decider, the Indian cricket team roared back to form on the opening day of the second and final Test against West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here today.
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, India piled up an imposing 362/3 in 90 overs, thanks to a breathtaking unbeaten 173 from opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who anchored the innings with a blend of aggressive strokeplay and resolute defense. The performance not only avenged the visitors’ upset victory in the first Test but also reaffirmed India’s stranglehold on home soil, where they remain unbeaten in over a decade.
The day belonged unequivocally to Jaiswal, the 23-year-old prodigy from Surat, who walked out to the crease amid whispers of form concerns following a modest showing in the series opener. What followed was a masterclass in Test batting elegant drives through the covers, punishing pulls off the back foot, and a trademark flick that has become his signature.
Jaiswal’s knock, laced with 22 boundaries and a towering six, came off 248 balls and was a testament to his growing maturity. “It’s all about backing yourself in these big moments,” Jaiswal said post-stumps, flashing his trademark grin. “The pitch had a bit of spice early on, but once we settled, it was our game to dominate.”
Supporting Jaiswal in a marathon partnership that yielded 245 runs for the third wicket was Shubman Gill, the stand-in captain who notched up a fluent 91 before falling to a rash shot against off-spinner Gudakesh Motie. Gill’s dismissal, caught at slip, briefly sparked hopes of a West Indies resurgence, but KL Rahul (45*) joined Jaiswal to usher in the close with a watchful unbeaten stand. Rahul, ever the technician, played a pivotal role in blunting the new ball threat posed by Jason Holder and Alzarri Joseph, who toiled manfully without much reward.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite, reflecting on a tough day in the field, admitted his side was outplayed. “India’s top order is world-class, and Jaiswal showed why he’s the future,” Brathwaite remarked. “Our bowlers bowled with heart, but we need more from the bat tomorrow. This series is still alive.” The visitors, trailing 0-1 after their gritty win in Ahmedabad, will draw succor from the pitch’s anticipated turn in the second innings, where spin duo R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja could yet turn the tide.
This match, part of the World Test Championship cycle, carries extra weight for India, who are aiming to consolidate their position at the top of the standings. A win here would not only seal the series 2-0 but also boost morale ahead of the grueling tour of Australia later this year. For West Indies, it’s a chance to salvage pride and build on their emerging talents like Kirk McKenzie and Alick Athanaze, who showed flashes in the first Test.
Off the field, the atmosphere in Delhi was electric, with over 35,000 fans packing the stands, many waving tricolors in a nod to the iconic fan Sudhir Kumar Chaudhary, who once again led the charge with his painted body and relentless enthusiasm. The BCCI, meanwhile, announced initiatives to promote Test cricket among youth, including discounted tickets for students a move hailed by experts as crucial for the format’s survival in the T20 era.
As the floodlights dimmed over the Arun Jaitley Stadium, one thing was clear: India’s quest for redemption is in full swing. With Jaiswal at the helm literally and figuratively the hosts are primed to extend their fortress-like record. Day two promises more drama, with West Indies desperate to strike early and India eyeing a declaration that could put the game beyond reach.
(India News Reporter is your trusted source for comprehensive coverage of cricket and beyond. Follow us for live updates from the Arun Jaitley Stadium tomorrow.)
