Florida: India displayed a commanding performance to secure a resounding 9-wicket triumph against the West Indies in the fourth T20 International (T20I) match, levelling the series at 2-2. The match, held at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, witnessed an outstanding partnership between Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal that steered India to victory.
Gill and Jaiswal showcased exceptional batting prowess, crafting a remarkable 165-run partnership that posed a daunting challenge for the West Indies bowlers. Chasing a target of 179, the duo provided India with a strong foundation from the outset, effectively dismantling the West Indies’ hopes of clinching a decisive win.
Jaiswal, determined to overcome a disappointing debut, quickly found his stride, setting the tone with a boundary on the first ball of the second inning. On the other end, Gill made a cautious start, gradually adjusting to the pitch’s dynamics. Once Gill identified the variations presented by the bowlers, he seized the opportunity, kickstarting a boundary spree that bolstered India’s progress.
Gill’s explosive performance included a maximum off Obed McCoy, followed by consecutive boundaries by Jaiswal in the ensuing over. The power play concluded with a score of 66-0 in India’s favour. The opening partnership’s momentum remained unbroken as they continued to dictate terms against the West Indies bowlers, capitalising on their inability to find the right line and length.
As the game reached its midway point, India was firmly in control, crossing the 100-run mark without losing a wicket. Jaiswal reached his maiden T20I half-century, while Gill achieved his own milestone, completing his fifty with a double.
The onslaught persisted until the 16th over, when Gill’s impressive innings came to an end at 77 off 47 balls. Romario Shepherd finally claimed a wicket for the hosts, but the damage was already done. Youngster Tilak Varma joined Jaiswal on the field, guiding India to victory and a series leveller at 2-2.
In the first inning, Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer were the driving forces behind the West Indies’ competitive total of 178-8. Hetmyer’s dynamic knock of 61, coupled with Hope’s 45, anchored their team’s batting performance amidst the challenges posed by the Indian bowlers. Despite their efforts, India’s bowlers managed to keep the majority of the West Indies’ batting lineup at bay.
Arshdeep Singh stood out with a stellar performance, claiming three crucial wickets for India. His contributions were pivotal in restricting the West Indies’ run rate and setting up India’s dominant chase.
Brief Score: West Indies 178-8 (Shimron Hetmyer 61, Shai Hope 45; Arshdeep Singh 3-38) vs. India 179-1 (Yashasvi Jaiswal 84, Shubman Gill 77; Romario Shepherd 1-35)
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