India Dominates West Indies, Approaching Victory in Ahmedabad Test

India is on the brink of securing a significant victory against West Indies in the first Test match held in Ahmedabad. After declaring their first innings at a formidable score of 448 for 5, India then reduced the West Indies to 66 for 5 at lunch on the third day, leaving the visitors trailing by 220 runs.

Having dismissed West Indies for just 162 in their first innings, India opted for an aggressive declaration after building a lead of 286 runs. The West Indies top order struggled once again against India’s potent bowling attack, which was complemented by sharp fielding.

India’s Bowling Attack Shines

The Indian bowlers showcased their skill, with Ravindra Jadeja making a significant impact. After scoring a century the previous day, he continued to trouble the West Indies batsmen, claiming three crucial wickets. In one instance, John Campbell attempted to drive a Jadeja delivery but instead sent a catch to Sai Sudharsan at short leg.

The left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav added to West Indies’ woes by uprooting the off-stump of captain Roston Chase, pushing the visitors further into trouble at 35 for 4. Jadeja’s third wicket came when Yashasvi Jaiswal made a spectacular catch at backward point, dismissing Shai Hope and leaving the West Indies in disarray.

As the West Indies resumed after the break, they remained desperate to avoid an innings defeat, with Alick Athanaze and Justin Greaves at the crease. Athanaze managed to score 27 runs while Greaves contributed 10 before the lunch break, but the pressure from India’s bowlers loomed large.

Fielding Excellence Elevates Performance

Not only did India’s bowlers excel, but their fielders also made a significant difference. One of the highlights came when Nitish Kumar Reddy executed a stunning catch, diving to his left to dismiss Tagnarine Chanderpaul, who had just pulled a delivery from Mohammed Siraj.

With the West Indies struggling to build partnerships and facing a daunting target, the Indian team appeared set to capitalize on their dominant position. As play progresses, the focus remains on whether the West Indies can regroup or if India will complete a comprehensive victory in this first Test.