India took full control on Day 3 of the second Test against West Indies in Delhi. In their first innings, West Indies were dismissed for 248, falling well short of India’s declared total of 518/5. Kuldeep Yadav was the star, claiming 5 wickets for 82 runs to lead India’s bowling attack.
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With a lead of 270 runs, India enforced the follow-on. The West Indies came out to bat again, hoping to survive or salvage something from the match.
In their second innings, West Indies began poorly, losing two early wickets and reaching 35 for 2 at tea, still far behind India’s huge total.
But after lunch, their batting revived thanks to an impressive stand between John Campbell and Shai Hope. The two stitched together an unbroken partnership of 138 runs, bringing respectability back to the innings. At stumps, West Indies were 173 for 2, still trailing by 97 runs. Campbell remained unbeaten on 87, his highest score in Tests, and Hope was not out on 66.
India tried different bowling options late in the session, including introducing Jasprit Bumrah, but were unable to break the solid stand before stumps.
Kuldeep’s performance also carried historical significance. He became the fastest left-arm wrist spinner to take five “five-wicket hauls” in Tests, matching England’s Johnny Wardle in total but doing it in far fewer matches.
India now head into Day 4 with a commanding position, though West Indies have shown fight in this second innings. The hosts will be eyeing another innings victory and a 2-0 sweep of the series.