India's Victorious Triumph: Dominating the West Indies with a Record Smash

02 Aug, (VNI) In a stunning display of dominance, Team India showcased their mettle by shattering an 18-year record with a resounding victory over West Indies in the third ODI. The three-match series concluded with India securing a commanding 2-1 lead.

The decision to rest skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, a gamble taken after the setback in the second ODI, proved to be a masterstroke as the all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, exceeded all expectations. Accompanied by the formidable opening partnership of Ishan Kishan (77) and Shubman Gill (85), Hardik displayed an exceptional performance, remaining unbeaten at 70 and propelling India to an astounding total of 351/5 in 50 overs. The hosts, in response, faltered and were dismissed for a mere 151 runs.

This victory also etched India's name in history, as it became their highest ODI total without a centurion, surpassing their previous record set in 2005 against Sri Lanka with a score of 350/6.

Batting first, India enjoyed a superb start with Gill and Kishan forming a record-breaking partnership of 143 runs. Additionally, Sanju Samson and stand-in captain Hardik contributed significantly, notching 51 and an unbeaten 70 runs respectively, bolstering India's total to an imposing figure.

The pursuit for West Indies was always an insurmountable task, as Mukesh Kumar's stellar three-wicket performance in just 7 overs, especially during the initial Power play, dashed any hope of a comeback. West Indies succumbed to 151 all out in a mere 35.3 overs.

Even Gudakesh Motie (39 not out) and Alzarri Joseph (26) put up a valiant fight with a 55-run stand for the ninth wicket, it only delayed the inevitable.

As the series reached its conclusion, Shardul Thakur (4/37 in 6.3 overs), Jaydev Unadkat (1/16 in 5 overs), and Kuldeep Yadav (2/25 in 8 overs) demonstrated their prowess, contributing to the one-sided affair that unfolded in the series decider.