India Wrap Up Series With Clinical Finish in New Delhi
Team India produced another commanding performance to complete a 2-0 Test series sweep over the West Indies, winning the second and final Test by seven wickets on the final morning at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
Chasing a modest 121-run target, India reached the mark comfortably as KL Rahul (58 not out) anchored the innings, while B Sai Sudharsan (39) provided steady support. The hosts sealed victory within an hour on the final day, continuing their unbeaten home run in red-ball cricket.
“It’s a great honour to lead this team,” said India’s young captain Shubman Gill, celebrating his first series win since taking charge earlier this year. “Managing all the players and seeing them perform at this level makes me proud.”
Dominant Batting and Spin Seal the Series
India had already taken firm control of the match after piling up a mammoth 518-5 declared in their first innings. In reply, the West Indies crumbled to 248 all out, forcing a follow-on.
Despite a resilient second-innings display that saw John Campbell and Shai Hope score centuries to take their side to 390 all out, the deficit proved too steep.
Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav once again starred with the ball, claiming eight wickets in the match, earning him the Player of the Match award. Ravindra Jadeja, who had been consistent throughout the series with both bat and ball, was named Player of the Tournament.
“Our bowlers were exceptional,” Gill added. “Kuldeep and Jadeja deserve special praise for creating chances and maintaining pressure throughout.”
West Indies Show Resilience Despite Series Loss
The West Indies, led by Roston Chase, entered the second Test seeking redemption after a heavy defeat in Ahmedabad, where India wrapped up the match inside three days.
This time, the visitors displayed improved discipline and determination. Their 390-run second innings, built on twin centuries from Campbell and Hope, pushed the match into its fifth day.
Captain Chase lauded his team’s improved effort:
“We can take positives from this Test,” Chase said. “Campbell and Hope batted beautifully. We managed to bat 100 overs — that’s a big improvement. Taking the game into the fifth day gives us confidence for the future.”
Rahul and Sudharsan Lead India’s Chase
Resuming at 63-1 on the final morning, India required just 58 more runs to win. Sai Sudharsan, the promising left-hander, fell for 39 after an excellent diving catch by Shai Hope in the slips off Chase’s bowling.
Captain Shubman Gill (13) followed shortly after, miscuing a lofted shot that was brilliantly caught by Justin Greaves running in from midwicket.
Those two wickets were the only bright spots for the West Indies, as KL Rahul remained composed to bring up his half-century and finish the job. His winning boundary through cover sealed the match and series for India.
Statistical Highlights
- India: 518-5 decl. & 121-3
- West Indies: 248 & 390
- Result: India won by 7 wickets
- Series Result: India won 2-0
- Player of the Match: Kuldeep Yadav (8 wickets)
- Player of the Series: Ravindra Jadeja
This marks India’s 10th consecutive home Test series win, extending a record that has stood since 2013.
Focus Shifts to Australia Tour
India will now head to Australia for a high-profile white-ball tour beginning October 19, starting with the first One-Day International (ODI) in Perth. The series will serve as key preparation ahead of next year’s ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Shubman Gill and coach Rahul Dravid are expected to continue testing India’s bench strength, with senior players such as Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah likely to return for the Australia fixtures.
“This win gives us great momentum,” said Gill. “The focus now shifts to adapting to Australian conditions and continuing our winning culture.”
A Step Forward for India’s Next Generation
The New Delhi Test showcased the depth of India’s squad. Young stars like Sudharsan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Mukesh Kumar impressed, while senior pros Rahul, Jadeja, and Kuldeep ensured balance and stability.
With several experienced names rested, this series highlighted the emergence of India’s next generation under Gill’s leadership.
Cricket analysts noted that India’s ability to dominate at home with a mix of youth and experience bodes well for their future overseas challenges — starting with the Australian tour and later the England Tests in 2026.
Key Takeaways
- India sweep West Indies 2-0 to remain unbeaten at home since 2013.
- KL Rahul’s 58* anchors successful 121-run chase.
- Kuldeep Yadav named Player of the Match; Ravindra Jadeja wins Player of the Series.
- West Indies show resilience through centuries from John Campbell and Shai Hope.
- India’s next challenge: Australia tour starting October 19 in Perth.
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