Windies vs India, 1st Test: Key takeaways from Day 3
The Indian cricket team has gained a significant advantage over West Indies in the first Test match being held at North Sound, Antigua. After dismissing Windies for 222, India took a strong lead of 260 at stumps on Day 3. India are 185/3 in the second innings. Virat Kohli (51*) and Ajinkya Rahane (53*) are at the crease. Here are the key takeaways.
Windies were 189/8 at stumps on Day 2 and they managed to add another 33 runs. Jason Holder (39) played a strong hand for the hosts. For India, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja got the final two scalps. In reply, India's top three batsmen got starts but nobody went on to score big. Kohli and Rahane added an unbeaten 104-run stand to help India.
KL Rahul scored 38 in the second innings after amassing 44 in the first. This was positive for the opening batsman after he made a return to the Test team. However, he will be peeved for not converting these starts into something more substantial. He was left frustrated after playing a flashy sweep shot only to be bowled by Roston Chase.
Kohli and Rahane were the carriers of this side. Both batted as per the requirements and brought their experience into play. It was a well-earned partnership that helped India settle their nerves. The two hit just five boundaries between them. It was a gritty display and they ensured the safety approach. Rahane, in particular, needs to be lauded for scoring two successive fifties.
Windies had a long day on the field. Holder tried every option possible but Kohli and Rahane thwarted the Windies. Roston Chase was the pick of the bowlers and took two scalps. However, the Test match is getting away from the hosts. They will have another battle on Day 4 and need to get these two batsmen early on to limit the damage.
