Georgetown: Suryakumar Yadav’s scintillating innings of 83 off 44 balls, complemented by an unbeaten 49* from the young talent Tilak Varma, propelled India to a remarkable 7-wicket triumph over the West Indies in the third ODI at Providence Stadium on Thursday. The victory marked India’s first win in the five-match T20I series, narrowing the West Indies’ lead to 2-1.
Chasing a target of 160, India suffered an early setback as debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal departed for just 1 (2), caught by Alzarri Joseph at mid-on off Obed McCoy’s bowling. Shubman Gill’s struggles with the bat continued as he fell to Joseph’s short delivery, leaving the Indian innings hanging in the balance.
However, Suryakumar Yadav’s explosive knock and Tilak Varma’s composed partnership turned the tide in India’s favour. The duo’s 87-run stand steadied the innings, with Suryakumar’s blazing innings laying the foundation for the successful chase. Although Suryakumar could not see the game through to the end, skipper Hardik Pandya’s quick cameo ensured India clinched victory.
In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav emerged as the standout performer, clinching three crucial wickets. Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar also made valuable contributions, taking one wicket each. For the West Indies, Brandon King’s 42 off 42 deliveries and Rovman Powell’s unbeaten 40 off 19 balls anchored the host’s innings.
Opting to bat first, the West Indies started strongly, thanks to a solid opening partnership between Kyle Mayers and Brandon King. The duo piled on runs at a consistent pace against the Indian bowlers. However, Axar Patel’s spin proved instrumental in dismissing Mayers for 25 runs in the 8th over. Kuldeep Yadav then spun his magic, removing Johnson Charles and later dismissing the in-form Nicholas Pooran.
Despite Kuldeep’s efforts, Rovman Powell’s late blitz in the 19th over helped the West Indies set a competitive total of 159/5 on the board. Powell’s powerful hitting, including two huge sixes, pushed the West Indies’ score higher in the final stages of their innings.
Despite Kuldeep’s efforts, Rovman Powell’s late blitz in the 19th over helped the West Indies set a competitive total of 159/5 on the board. Powell’s powerful hitting, including two huge sixes, pushed the West Indies’ score higher in the final stages of their innings.
The electrifying match showcased India’s fighting spirit as they chased down the target with flair and determination. Suryakumar Yadav’s vintage performance and Tilak Varma’s unflinching partnership provided a much-needed boost for India, reigniting hopes of a series comeback.
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