Team India’s stunning transformation into “Bazball mode” during the fourth day of the Test match against West Indies amazed and delighted cricket enthusiasts. Mohammed Siraj’s brilliant five-wicket haul set the stage for the visitors to gain a significant 183-run lead in the first innings. However, the electrifying performance of the opening pair, Yasasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma, truly stole the show, propelling India towards a memorable victory.
Rohit Sharma’s fastest-ever Test fifty, scored in just 44 deliveries, and the whirlwind 98-run partnership with Jaiswal in only 71 balls set the momentum for India. Though both openers were dismissed in successive overs, the Indian team continued attacking. However, in a surprising twist, the young and talented Ishan Kishan walked out at No.4, ahead of the skipper, Virat Kohli.
Kishan’s impact was immediate and breathtaking. He forged a brilliant partnership with Shubman Gill, who was expected to be accompanied by Kohli at the crease. The left-handed batter played his natural game fearlessly and scored a blazing 52 runs from just 34 balls, achieving his maiden half-century knock. This decision to send Kishan in at No.4 proved a game-changer, leaving fans in awe of India’s strategic approach.
After the day’s play, Ishan Kishan opened up about the pivotal decision and the role of Virat Kohli in it. He revealed that Kohli had shown immense belief in his abilities and encouraged him to bat at No.4, allowing him to express himself freely. This confidence-boosting support from the former Indian captain made all the difference in Kishan’s innings.
“It was really special (the half-century). I knew what the team needed from me. Everyone backed me. Virat backed me and told me ‘go and play your game’. Let us hope we will finish the game tomorrow. It was Virat bhai who took the initiative and told me that I should go in. There was a slow left-armer who was bowling. It was a good call for the team. Sometimes you need to take these calls,” said Kishan after the day’s play.
“We planned to play 10-12 overs after the rain break and score 70-80 runs. We wanted a 370-380 target,” he added.
Kishan’s explosive innings helped India declare their second innings at an impressive 181 for two, setting a formidable target of 365 runs for West Indies to chase. Despite the rain-affected day, India managed to create an opportunity to secure a victory on the final day.
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The dynamic batting display and strategic decision-making by Team India demonstrated their confidence and determination to secure a win. Ishan Kishan’s fearless approach and Kohli’s proactive captaincy showcased the team’s commitment to playing aggressive and result-oriented cricket.
With India’s bowlers making crucial inroads into the West Indian batting lineup on the penultimate day, the hosts found themselves 289 runs away from an improbable victory. India’s aggressive intent and Ishan Kishan’s standout performance proved that the future of Indian cricket is in capable hands, complemented by the experience and leadership of stalwarts like Virat Kohli.
