West Indies showcased a brilliant performance in the second T20I against India, securing a thrilling victory by two wickets and taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
The match at Providence Stadium, Guyana, had its fair share of ups and downs, making it a riveting encounter for cricket enthusiasts.
India started off with a jittery beginning, losing Shubman Gill early, courtesy of Alzarri Joseph’s exceptional bowling, who claimed his hundredth T20I wicket.
The West Indian side capitalized on their opponent’s vulnerability and soon sent Suryakumar Yadav back to the pavilion with a direct hit from Kyle Mayers, keeping the Indian batting lineup in check during the powerplay overs.
However, the duo of Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan managed to steady the ship, building a solid partnership of 42 runs in 36 balls.
Despite Kishan’s dismissal, Tilak continued to hold the fort, along with Hardik Pandya, who played a crucial role in infusing momentum into India’s innings.
Their partnership contributed 38 runs in just 27 balls, propelling India to a competitive total, eventually surpassing the 150-run mark, thanks to late blows from Arshdeep Singh and Ravi Bishnoi.
In response, the West Indies suffered an initial nightmare, losing two wickets in the very first over to Hardik Pandya. But Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran counterattacked ferociously, wreaking havoc on the Indian bowlers. Although Mayers’ dismissal halted his explosive innings, Pooran’s fiery fifty continued to guide the home side.
With the fall of wickets in quick succession, West Indies faced an imminent implosion at 126-4. However, Pooran’s departure triggered a startling collapse, bringing the hosts to 129-8.
India appeared to have regained control of the game, but that’s when Akeal Hosein and Alzarri Joseph stepped up, displaying remarkable composure under pressure.
Hosein and Joseph decided to bide their time, recognizing that they had ample overs at their disposal. The duo patiently accumulated runs, making sure to keep the scoreboard ticking.
With a stunning six and a four off Mukesh Kumar’s bowling in the penultimate over, they sealed the victory for West Indies with seven balls to spare, leaving the crowd in awe.
This win gives the West Indies a significant advantage in the series, taking a 2-0 lead against India. The upcoming third T20I, set to be played at the same venue, presents an opportunity for the hosts to further solidify their dominance and put India under pressure.
In conclusion, the second T20I between West Indies and India showcased a roller-coaster of emotions, with exceptional performances from both sides.
While India fought valiantly, it was ultimately the West Indies’ stellar batting display, led by Nicholas Pooran, that secured them a well-deserved victory and a commanding lead in the series.