West Indies have thrown down a thunderous challenge in Guwahati. After India chose to bowl first in the second ODI, the visitors produced a batting masterclass and posted 405 for 7 in 50 overs, their highest total in ODIs.
India now need 406 to stay ahead in the three-match series they currently lead 1-0.
The innings was built on three standout knocks. John Campbell set the tone with a blistering century in the powerplay. Captain Shai Hope followed with a composed hundred of his own, riding some luck after being dropped. Then came Amir Jangoo. The left-hander tore into the Indian attack, smashing 114 off just 77 balls at a strike rate close to 148. His innings included a flurry of boundaries and two sixes that kept the scoring rate above eight an over throughout.
India’s bowlers had little respite. Debutant Auqib Nabi and Gurnoor Brar leaked runs, with Brar finishing with 2 for 96. Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja each claimed two wickets, including Jadeja’s dismissal of Jangoo that ended a long wait for an ODI wicket. Still, the damage had already been done. West Indies lost four wickets in the last ten overs but still added 76 runs to cross the 400-mark.
The target of 406 is one of the steepest India have faced at home in recent years. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill will need to produce something special if the hosts are to keep their winning streak against the Windies alive. The series now hangs in the balance as India begin their chase under the Guwahati lights.
