NEW DELHI: India's Mohammed Siraj delivered a career-best five-wicket haul to decimate the West Indies' batting lineup, while Rohit Sharma's explosive fifty powered India to a commanding position on day four of the second Test on Sunday.
The West Indies resumed their first innings at 229 for five, hoping to build a strong foundation. However, their dreams were shattered as Siraj unleashed a sizzling spell, leaving the hosts reeling at 255 all-out. The Indian pacer bowled with precision and guile, using the scrambled seam to perfection, which left the West Indies batsmen struggling to find an answer.
Debutant Mukesh Kumar provided the initial breakthrough, dismissing Alick Athanaze early in the morning session with an inswinging delivery. From there on, it was the Siraj show, as he relentlessly picked apart the West Indies lower-order.
West Indies skipper Jason Holder was caught behind fishing at a swinging delivery, and Alzarri Joseph fell victim to Siraj's sharp incoming ball, resulting in a successful LBW review. With his final wicket, Siraj completed his second five-wicket haul in Test cricket, proving his mettle as the leader of India's pace attack in the Caribbean.
As India took a substantial 183-run lead, the focus shifted to their second innings, and the visitors came out all guns blazing. Opening batsman Rohit Sharma, known for his aggressive batting style, embraced the challenge and played a whirlwind knock. The West Indies bowlers were left hapless as Rohit smashed three sixes and five fours during his entertaining innings of 57 off just 44 balls.
Rohit's blistering knock included his fastest Test fifty, accomplished in just 35 balls, as he punished the bowlers with effortless flicks and powerful shots. Despite being dropped twice during his innings, Rohit finally fell to Shannon Gabriel's delivery, caught at fine leg.
Partnering with Rohit, young prodigy Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his potential, batting with T20-like aggression. His unbeaten 37 off 28 balls added crucial runs to India's lead, extending it to 281 runs before rain interrupted play and forced an early lunch.
The Indian team's ultra-aggressive approach showcased their intent to set a daunting target for the West Indies and press for a series-clinching victory. The fans witnessed thrilling cricket, with batsmen taking the attack to the opposition and bowlers displaying their prowess in challenging conditions.
(With inputs from PTI)
