In a high-scoring thriller at the PCA International Stadium in New Chandigarh, the West Indies cricket team scripted history by defeating India by 5 wickets in the third and final ODI of the series. Despite India setting a massive target of 352 runs, the visitors showcased exceptional resilience and batting prowess to cross the finish line. This victory marked the highest successful run chase in the history of West Indies' ODI cricket, ensuring they ended the series on a high note with a 1-2 scoreline, thereby preventing an Indian clean sweep.
India's Batting Struggles and Recovery
The match began with a challenging start for the Indian team after being put into bat. The home side faced an immediate setback as captain Shubman Gill was dismissed for just 1 run, caught behind by Shai Hope off a short delivery from Jayden Seales. The situation worsened on the very next ball when the legendary Virat Kohli was clean bowled for a duck by Seales. Within the first three overs, India found themselves reeling at 4 runs for the loss of two major wickets. The disciplined bowling attack led by Jayden Seales and Matthew Forde kept the Indian batters in check, allowing only 28 runs in the first 10 overs of the innings.
The Middle Order Resurgence
Following the early tremors, the experienced Rohit Sharma and the young Ruturaj Gaikwad took charge of the innings. Rohit Sharma played a commanding knock of 92 runs off 85 deliveries, which included 10 boundaries and 3 sixes. He was ably supported by Gaikwad, who contributed a solid 57 runs from 69 balls, hitting 1 four and 4 sixes. Their partnership laid the foundation for a competitive total. After their departures, KL Rahul took the game to the next level with a sensational performance, while rahul remained unbeaten on 129 runs off just 87 balls, propelling India to a formidable total of 351 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs.
Shai Hope's Masterclass and Historic Chase
Chasing a target of 352, West Indies faced an early hurdle as opener Jewel Andrew couldn't open the innings due to a finger injury. This prompted captain Shai Hope to step up and open the batting alongside John Campbell. Although Campbell was early dismissed, being bowled by Mohammed Siraj, Hope remained undeterred at one end. He found a reliable partner in Amir Jangoo, who played a brisk innings of 67 runs off 56 balls before being run out. The momentum was further maintained by Keemo Paul, who smashed 44 runs off 35 balls, and Gudakesh Motie, who remained unbeaten on 19 runs at the end.
A Record-Breaking Victory
The star of the show was undoubtedly Shai Hope, who played a captain's knock of 162 runs not out. His innings spanned 143 balls and was decorated with 17 boundaries and 3 sixes. 2 overs, marking the first time the team successfully chased a target of 350 or more in ODI cricket. While India won the series 2-1, this 5-wicket victory by West Indies shattered India's hopes of a 3-0 series whitewash and established a new milestone for Caribbean cricket.