India have set West Indies a target of 365 to win the 2nd second test at Port of Spain. At the close of play, the home team were 76/2 still needing 289 runs on the final day. A win for West Indies will be their first against India for over 21 years. Indian win meanwhile will be their 5th consecutive series win in West Indies. The Indian has won the series in Caribbean in 2006, 2011, 2015 and 2019.
The story as it happened –
While India is on the verge of yet another series win in West Indies, this could be the final trip for many players. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Ravichandran Ashwin are entering their final leagues of their career. One player though has admitted he could hang up his boots very soon.
Indian player about to retire soon?
Ishant Sharma hasn’t played test cricket since the 2021 game against New Zealand. The 105 test veteran is part of the commentary panel for the 2 match test series. Former Delhi teammate Aakash Chopra was heard asking Ishant Sharma if he fancied a comeback to the Indian side. The 34 year old was heard saying “Nahi meri body ab sath nahi deti hai”
Mohammad Siraj picks fifer to bowl out West Indies –
India had Mohammad Siraj to thank for the 183 run lead in their 1st innings. The 29 year old pacer picked 5-60 which was his best effort in test cricket. Siraj had dismissed Joshua Da Silva earlier on Saturday. Siraj then got rid of the West Indian lower order to bowl them out for 255.
Indian batters score 181/2 in 24 overs.
With the weather a major cause of concern, the Indian batters decided to score quick. Yashasvi Jaiswal came down the track and hit Roach for a huge six over the covers to signal his intent. Captain, Rohit Sharma scored his fastest test 50 and was out for 57 off 44 balls with 5 fours and 3 sixes. Jaiswal was out for 38, while Gill was not out on 29. Ishan Kishan hit 52 off 34 balls with 4 fours and 2 sixes to register his 1st half century.
Ashwin got the wickets of Brathwaite for 28 and Mckenzie for a four ball duck as Chanderpaul and Blackwood were the crease. Chanderpaul was not out on 24 off 98 balls while Blackwood was on 20 as West Indies ended the day at 76/2.