Windies vs India, 1st Test: Key takeaways from Day 2
The Indian cricket team has gained a significant advantage over West Indies on Day 2 of the first Test match. India, who resumed at 203/6, managed 297 in the first innings. A superb bowling effort from Ishant Sharma (5/42) then jolted the Windies. Jason Holder-led Windies trail by 108 runs. Windies were 189/8 at stumps on Day 2. Here are the key takeaways.
Ravindra Jadeja showed his value for Team India after a spirited 58 in the first innings. The all-rounder hit six fours and one six in a 112-ball affair. Jadeja took his time and saw India get to a position of safety. His 60-run stand with Ishant for the eighth wicket was a defining moment. Jadeja's batting has improved drastically. He adds many facets.
Ishant brought all his experience into play and was rewarded. He led the bowling attack and despite a poor start, the wicket of Kraigg Brathwaite helped him settle down. Just when the Windies middle-order looked to settle down, Ishant came back and removed three crucial batsmen. He claimed his ninth Test five-for and raced to 272 wickets in the format.
Windies batsmen never quite managed to build on the starts they got. Roston Chase managed 48 and was the top run-scorer. The likes of Shai Hope (24) and Shimron Hetmyer (35) also wasted the chance to score big runs. The Indian bowlers kept picking up wickets at regular intervals. Windies have been let down by the batting and they have plenty to ponder upon.
India lost Rishabh Pant (24) early on in Day 2. However, Jadeja and Ishant frustrated the Windies. That gave the side a base to get near the 300-run mark. It was always going to be interesting to see the WI batsmen applying themselves against India. After a brisk start, the problems appeared. They were never allowed to settle down.
