Visakhapatnam: West Indies were put under total pressure in the later part of the second day of the second test match with India, who declared their first innings at 518 runs already. Captain Shubman Gill scored a wonderful 129 as India reached 518 for 5. The young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, however, fell short of his double century by just 25 runs when he was out for 175. The two of their innings ensured India a solid position from which to press home their advantage.
From the first day Indian batsmen did not miss a beat in their usually tough but aggressive displays of hitting the ball Jaiswal’s 175 runs came from 257 balls and included 22 fours and three sixes. He was well on his way toward his third double century of the season when he was run out. Gill then steadied again, scoring an unbroken 129 for his fifth century this year. In India’s middle order, Nitish Reddy contributed 44 and Dhruv Jurel 43 as the hosts went past 500 for the first time.
India declared their innings closed on 518/5 just before lunch. The tactic of Captain Gill in giving early wickets to his bowlers was successful. A blow was struck against the West Indies in the beginning of their innings. Opener John Campbell had made only 10 runs. His wicket fell off a unique catch, as B. Sai Sudharshan took a ball which had struck his helmet faceguard down at forward short-leg. At the close of play, West Indies had lost one wicket for 26 runs.
Taganrine Chanderpaul remains undefeated on 13 and Alec Athanaze 2. India’s lead has now become much stronger, and the team are once again on the path to a series 2-0 win. What this match is all about is manifest a solid start from India’s batsmen followed by an onslaught of spin could well prove too much for the opposition.
There is a widespread belief among analysts that India’s batting in this Test reflects their depth and harmony in familiar surroundings. Thanks to Jaiswal’s consistency and Gill’s captaincy plus the bowlers’ careful planning India are well on the way to victory over the West Indies. All eyes are now on the West Indies’ second innings – whether they can resist the challenge of India or whether the series is India’s for the taking will be known tomorrow.
Also Read: IND vs WI: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Record-Breaking Century Puts India in Command on Day 1
