India stands on the precipice of a comprehensive 2-0 series sweep against the West Indies, poised to achieve victory on Day 5 of the second Test in Delhi. The win will not only secure the series but also provide a significant boost to India's World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.
After a resilient fightback from the West Indies, India needs just 58 runs to win the second Test. KL Rahul (25) and Sai Sudharsan (30) are at the crease, ready to resume the chase on the final day. With nine wickets in hand, India is the overwhelming favorite to wrap up the match and the series.
West Indies showed resilience on Day 4, with John Campbell and Shai Hope leading the charge. They resumed play on Day 4 at 173/2, trailing by 97 runs. Campbell reached his maiden Test century, while Hope also notched up a century. However, after India enforced the follow-on, the West Indies were eventually bowled out for 390 in their second innings, setting India a target of 121 runs. A late-order partnership of 79 runs between Justin Greaves (50*) and Jayden Seales (32) further frustrated the Indian bowlers.
India's bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, eventually dismantled the West Indies' resistance. Bumrah and Kuldeep claimed three wickets each.
Chasing a target of 121, India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal early. However, Rahul and Sudharsan steadied the ship, ensuring that India remained in a comfortable position at the close of play on Day 4. India finished Day 4 at 63/1.
The match is being played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. While the pitch may offer some turn, India's strong batting lineup is expected to chase down the remaining runs without much difficulty.
The victory would give India a 2-0 series win and valuable points in the World Test Championship.