So that is it from this run fest. India take the lead in this 3-match T20I series. West Indies will be happy with their batting efforts but not with their bowling. They would look to improve that in the second T20I. The action now moves to Thiruvananthapuram for the all important 2nd T20I. That game will be played on Sunday, 8th December. That game will begin at 1900 local (1330 GMT). Hope to see you all for that one. Till then, cheers!
No prizes for guessing, for his brilliant 95 not out Indian skipper, Virat Kohli is also the Man of the Match. Kohli laughs and says that the young guys should not watch the first half of his innings as he was trying to hit the ball too hard. Tells that he was going hard as it was a big target and he did not want to build pressure on Rahul. Says in the second half of his innings he tried to correct his balance and maintain his composure as he is not a hitter. Tells that his role is to play long innings and not wham-bham cricket. Adds that he likes to get his job done and help his team out rather then entertain the crowd. Says that if you pay attention to the game then it puts you down and lets you play to your strength. On his celebration with Williams, says it happened to him when Kesrick picked his wicket in West Indies. Insists it is all fun and there is no hard feelings.
West Indies skipper, Kieron Pollard says that he cannot fault the batter after scoring 207 as they would take the score 10/10 times. Rues the extras conceded as the major difference as he tells they gave 23 extras. Pollard feels there are a lot of positives to take from this game. Says he is satisfied with the efforts of his players but needs to find a way to get over the line and execute their plans. Tells he just tries to impart his knowledge and help the young guys out. Pollard adds he just wants the boys to come out and enjoy their cricket.
Stay tuned for the presentation as we hear from both the captains and find out who the Man of the Match is. No prizes for guessing who it would be though.
One of the stars of the 2nd innings with the bat, KL Rahul is up now for a chat with Sanjay Manjrekar. He says that everybody likes him when he scores runs. Adds that he does not plan his innings based on the strike rate. Further goes on to say he looks at the score and then goes about his innings. Goes on to say that he is confident that once he gets his eyes in that he can chase any score down. Goes on to say that he looks to find gaps in T20Is and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. On Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Rahul says that they get to play on different surfaces and they learn a lot. He says that he was confident in winning the matches for his side and he is pleased that he could take the confidence into this game.
Earlier in the day, in a batting friendly pitch, West Indies put up a big total of 207 courtesy of Shimron Hetmyer's 56 and cameos from Evin Lewis, Brandon King, Pollard and Holder. But in the end it was not enough for them to take a lead in the series.
A sorry day for the West Indian bowlers. They started off well but had a miserable day after that. Sheldon Cottrell though was brilliant with the ball where over 400 runs were scored in the game. He went for just 24 in his 4 overs and also picked up a wicket. Pierre got two but went for 11 rpo. Pollard had a wicket to his name to go with his one over. Kesrick Williams though had a nightmare of a day as he went for 60 in 3.4 overs.
Chasing a huge total of 208, the hosts did not get off to a good start losing Rohit Sharma early. Rahul though was looking very good at the other end. Initially when Kohli was struggling, Rahul took the impetus on him and his brisk 50 relieved the pressure on the skipper. Kohli then found his feet gradually and after getting to his fifty, the Indian skipper started going hammer and tonks. The duo added a 100-run stand for the second wicket. Rahul though could not continue but Kohli was in the mood till then. A cameo from Pant ensured that the the Men in Blue inch closer to the total and the master of chases ensured that his side get over the line with 8 balls to spare.
What a chase! And when India chase down a big score who is the key man? There is no question about it, it's the King, it's the skipper, it's Virat Kohli. It was the same here as well. There must be a saying in world cricket now, if there is a big total, Kohli will find it and chase it down. What an awesome chase! Wow.
18.4
6
SIX! Finishes off in style! The chase master does it again. Full ball outside off, Kohli hammers the drive over the extra cover region for a maximum. He is ecstatic and celebrates it in style. INDIA WIN BY 6 WICKETS.
18.3
2
Fullish delivery outside off, Kohli drives this towards cover and picks up an easy couple.
18.2
6
SIX! Runs needed in single digits now! Another masterful shot by Kohli. This is full and wide outside off, Kohli stays leg side of the delivery, goes inside out and lofts it over covers for a biggie.
18.1
2
The batsman has lofted that over mid-wicket. They manage to come back for the second.
Shivam Dube is the new man in.
In over# 1
0W
1
1lb
1
6
1wd
1
Kieron Pollard 10/1(1)
17.6
W
OUT! What a stunner this one from the Windies skipper! A shortish length ball around off, Iyer looks to hammer it wide of the bowler but the ball hits the upper part of the willow and goes to the left of Pollard. The skipper goes to his left and grabs the ball nicely.
17.5
1
Good length ball around off, VK punches it towards extra cover for a single.
17.4
1lb
NOT OUT! Indeed it is going down the leg side. That is nothing but out of desperation. A full ball on the pads, Iyer looks to whip but misses to get hit on the pads. A appeal from the bowler but not out says the umpire. Pollard eventually goes for the DRS after thinking for a while. Here come the replays. The Ultra Edge shows no bat involvement. The Ball Tracker arrives now and shows the ball to be missing the leg pole.
Pollard has gone for the LBW review against Shreyas Iyer. It looks like it is going down leg. The Ultra Edge shows no bat and the Ball Tracker shows that it is missing the leg stump.
17.3
1
Slower on this time on middle, Kohli smartly nudges it towards the leg side and takes off for a single. Pollard hares at the ball and then looks to throw at the bowler's end. Does not do so eventually.
17.2
6
SIX! Whipped off the pads. Slower ball on middle, fullish length. Kohli whips it over the deep mid-wicket fence.
17.2
1wd
WIDE! Pollard bowls a wild one and sprays it well down the leg side. Kohli is not even interested in playing that.
17.1
1
Back of a length on off, Iyer pulls it to deep mid-wicket for one.
Surprising! Kieron Pollard has given himself the ball.
In over# 1
1
2
0
1
0W
1
Sheldon Cottrell 24/1(4)
16.6
1
Around the pads, Iyer glances it to the on side and gets a single to keep the strike.
16.5
2
Poor from Cottrell. Fuller on off, Iyer flicks it towards mid-wicket and takes a single as Cottrell gets to the ball. He sends an unnecessary throw at the keeper's end which gets to Ramdin on an awkward bounce. The batters manage to make the most of it and get the second.
16.4
.
Full on off, Iyer pushes it to cover.
16.3
1
Length ball outside off, Kohli dabs it towards third man for a single.
Shreyas Iyer is the new man in.
16.2
W
OUT! Caught! Slower ball, 105.3 kph to be precise, a leg cutter from Cottrell. Very full outside off, Pant tries to slog it. He gets no timing it well. It goes high in the air. Holder comes running from long off and takes the skier with ease. A good cameo from Pant comes to an end but many would feel he has once again failed to make the most of his chance. Cottrell brings out his trademark salute. Game on? Or are India too far in front?
16.1
1
Full on off, Kohli milks it to deep cover for one.
Sheldron Cottrell is back into the attack. 3-0-19-0 are his figures so far. Can he finish with a bang?
In over# 1
2
3nb
6
1
6
4
1
Kesrick Williams 44/0(3)
15.6
2
Kesrick goes full around off, Pant glances it towards mid-wicket and gets a couple. 31 needed off the last 4 overs. India clearly in the driver's seat.
15.6
3nb
A full ball on middle, Pant tucks it towards mid-wicket and scampers back for the second. Well, one would've thought that is end of the over. No, not really, a late call from the third umpire. It was a no ball. So a Free Hit for Pant. What can he do on that one?
15.5
6
SIX! Slower ball but Pant does not care about the pace. When this young man hits they stay hit. It is way outside off, Pant hits it flat over the long off fence for a biggie. The skipper likes it and he is pumped up.
15.4
1
Very full on off, Kohli glances it towards deep mid-wicket for one.
This is some battle. Kesrick charges in and then pulls out. Virat stands his crease and gives a big stare to Williams. This is getting delicious between the two.
15.3
6
SIX! Now a bottom hand whip which sails over the fence. What batting! A full ball around off and middle, Kohli brings the bottom hand in play and whips it over the mid-wicket fence. And he does Williams' signature celebration which he used to do in the domestic leagues.
15.2
4
FOUR! A bullet over the bowler's head! Fullish ball just around off, Kohli drills it over the head of the bowler and to the long on fence.
15.1
1
Slower ball around off. Pant looks to play it straight but it goes off the inner half of his bat towards the leg side for a single.
Kesrick Williams is back into the attack. 2-0-21-0 are his figures so far. Can he take a wicket here?
In over# 1
1
0
0
1
3nb
4
6
Jason Holder 46/0(4)
14.6
1
Well bowled. Pant comes down the track and takes it as a low full toss. Rishabh dabs it towards third man for a run. 14 off the over. 54 needed off the last 5.
14.5
.
Short ball around the body. Pant looks to pull but misses.
14.4
.
A dot! Fuller and wide outside off, Pant finds covers.
14.3
1
Nothing much off the Free Hit. Full on middle, Kohli glances it towards mid-wicket and gets a single.
14.3
3nb
A couple! Full toss and on the pads, this is worked through mid-wicket. It is in the gap and two taken. AND AGAIN, IT IS ANOTHER NO BALL as the third umpire spots it. Free Hit coming up.
14.2
4
FOUR! Off the edge but it does not matter. Good length ball outside off, Kohli looks to flat-bat it over the off side but it goes off the upper half of his bat and over the short third man fielder for a boundary.
14.1
6
SIX! FIFTY FOR VIRAT KOHLI! Not a big celebration from him. He has not had it free-flowing like we have used to see him score runs but he is still out there and India will feel confident. His 23rd in T20Is. Full around off, Kohli demolishes it over the long off fence for a biggie.
Jason Holder is back into the attack. 3-0-31-0 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
6
1
2
0W
6
1
Khary Pierre 44/2(4)
13.6
6
SIX! Hammered away! Wow! What confidence. Pant is facing his first ball and he sends it sailing over the long on fence. A fullish, loopy ball on middle, Pant gets into position and deposits it over the fence.
13.5
1
Loopy ball outside off, Kohli sweeps it to deep mid-wicket and takes a single.
13.4
2
Floated ball on middle, Kohli sweeps it towards deep square leg and picks up an easy couple.
78 runs needed in 39 balls. Who will walk out at number 4? Pant or Iyer? It is Rishabh Pant who replaces KL Rahul. He has been under pressure. This could be his calling.
13.3
W
OUT! Caught! Against the run of play, the Indians have lost Rahul. A full ball just around off, Rahul looks to send it over the long off fielder but he does not get the desired result. He finds the long off fielder who pouches it comfortably. A fine knock from Rahul comes to the end. He would've loved to stay till the end in this chase but he has to go back.
13.2
6
SIX! This is massive! Rahul is now in top gear. Flighted ball on off, Rahul goes on his knees and sweeps it over the deep mid-wicket fence for a maximum. 78 required off 40 balls.
13.1
1
Flatter delivery on off, Kohli works it to long on and takes a single.
In over# 1
6
1
1wd
1
0
2nb
1
1
Kesrick Williams 21/0(2)
12.6
6
SIX! Pulled away with power. Cracking sound as the ball hit the bat. Back of a length on off, Rahul gets on his back foot and pulls it with disdain over the mid-wicket fence for a biggie.
12.5
1
Back of a length on off, Kohli tucks it to the on side and gets a single. Williams looks to get to the ball and in the process almost collides with Kohli. Kohli has a word with the umpire but he finds nothing wrong.
12.5
1wd
WIDE! Williams misses his line and sprays it down the leg side. Wided by the umpire.
12.4
1
FIFTY FOR RAHUL. He is not too happy with his effort and hence the subdued celebration. Good length ball on off, KL punches it to the off side and gets a single to get to his milestone. Still a long way to go.
12.3
.
Rahul misses. Length ball outside off, Rahul looks to paddle it over the fine leg fence but he misses. Nothing off the Free Hit.
12.3
2nb
Three singles from the first three balls. ACTUALLY! It is a NO BALL, the front foot no ball will be given by the third umpire and after the action, the messaged is communicated to the main umpire that Williams has overstepped. Low full toss on middle, Kohli flicks it to mid-wicket and takes a single. A Free Hit will follow.
12.2
1
In the air... but short! Good effort from King. An effort ball from Williams. It is short and on the body, Rahul is beaten by pace. It hits the upper half of the bat as he tries to pull. It goes uppishly on the leg side. Short fine leg runs in, dives but does not get to it. A single taken.
12.1
1
Back of a length around off, Virat flat-bats it towards long off for a single.
Kesrick Williams has a change of ends.
In over# 1
1
1wd
4
6
0
1
1lb
Jason Holder 31/0(3)
11.6
1
The batsman has driven it through mid off. One run added to the total.
11.6
1wd
WIDE! Way outside off. On the wrong side of the tramline. Kohli swings his bat at it but misses.
11.5
4
FOUR! Full toss and it is punished by Kohli. Full toss just below the waist, Kohli smashes it over mid-wicket for a boundary. He asks the umpire if it is a no ball but the umpire says no as the ball was dying as it reached him.
11.4
6
SIX! Not off the middle but Kohli is not complaining. Short ball around middle and leg, Kohli looks to pull but it goes off the upper half of his bat. The ball has the legs to sail over the deep square leg fence for a biggie.
11.3
.
Length ball just inside the tramline. Kohli leaves it assuming it to be wided but the umpire says no.
11.2
1
Full ball on middle, Rahul whips it with power to the man at deep mid-wicket for a single.
11.1
1lb
Slower ball outside off, Kohli walks across the off pole and looks to work it behind the keeper but gets hit on the pads. The ball lobs towards the left of the keeper. They take a leg bye. Very unusual of Kohli this one.
Jason Holder is into the attack. 2-0-18-0 are his figures so far.
In over# 1
0
0
1
4
1
1
Hayden Walsh 19/0(2)
10.6
.
Once again Walsh goes short. Rahul punches it but cannot go past the fielder.
10.5
.
Short around off, KL cuts it to the fielder at point.
10.4
1
A quick run! The googly, Kohli plays it off the stumps towards short third man. They go for the run. The fielder has a shy at the striker's end but misses. It goes towards long on. Kohli wants another but Rahul wasn't ready.
10.3
4
FOUR! Almost chopped on. A drag down around off from Walsh. Kohli looks to pull but gets a big inside edge which misses the stumps and goes to the fine leg fence for a boundary.
10.2
1
Short around off, Rahul punches it to deep cover for one.
10.1
1
Floated on off and middle, Kohli looks to heave but it goes off the inner half of his bat towards deep square leg for one.
Hayden Walsh is into the attack. His figures read 1-0-12-0.
In over# 1
1
1
1
1
4
0
Kesrick Williams 8/0(1)
9.6
1
Low full toss on middle, Kohli whips it to mid-wicket and takes a single. 119 required off the last 10 overs.
9.5
1
On a length on middle, Rahul works it to mid-wicket and takes another single.
9.4
1
Short ball outside off, Kohli cuts the ball off the back foot to deep cover and picks up a single.
9.3
1
On a length on middle, Rahul works it to deep mid-wicket and takes a single.
9.2
4
FOUR! Brilliant batting! Short delivery outside off, Rahul rocks on his back foot and punches this past the diving fielder at point for a boundary. Moves to 44 with this boundary.
9.1
.
Starts with a good length ball outside off, Rahul punches this off the back foot to point where the fielder dives and makes a good stop.
Kesrick Williams is into the attack for the first time in this game.
In over# 1
1
1
1
0
0
1wd
1
Jason Holder 18/0(2)
8.6
1
Full delivery on middle, Rahul works it to mid-wicket and takes a single.
8.5
1
Shortish ball just outside off, Kohli stays on the back foot and guides it to third man for a single. 50-run stand is up between the two.
8.4
1
Short ball on middle, Rahul pulls it to deep square leg and picks up a single.
8.3
.
Very full delivery on middle, Rahul pushes it back to the bowler.
8.2
.
BOUNCER! It is bowled outside off, Rahul looks to pull it but fails to make any connection with it.
8.2
1wd
WIDE! Full delivery down the leg side, Rahul looks to flick it but mises it. The umpire signals it a wide.
8.1
1
Short ball on off, Kohli pulls it towards mid-wicket and takes a single.
Jason Holder is back into the attack.
In over# 1
1
4
1
5wd
1
1
1
Khary Pierre 28/1(3)
7.6
1
Slightly shorter, Kohli dabs it towards short third man for one. Good over this for India. 14 off it. They need a few more like this.
7.5
4
FOUR! Superb shot this from Kohli. This might get him going. Floated on off, Kohli comes down the track and goes inside out over covers for a boundary.
7.4
1
Floated on off, Rahul defends it with soft hands and takes a single.
7.4
5wd
FIVE WIDES. Poor ball. Pierre sprays it down the leg side. Rahul leaves it alone. Ramdin is a bit slow to react but had zero chance to stop that.
7.3
1
Another mistimed stroke from Kohli. Fuller and on middle, Kohli hits it down to long on for one.
7.2
1
Around the pads, Rahul flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
7.1
1
Flatter on off, Kohli comes down the track and lofts it over extra cover for a run.
In over# 1
4
1
1wd
1
1
4
0
Hayden Walsh 12/0(1)
6.6
4
FOUR! Superb shot. Deft touch from Rahul as he shows his class. Slightly short around off, Rahul waits and then just guides it very fine down towards third man for a boundary.
6.5
1
Short again. Kohli punches it towards cover-point for one.
6.5
1wd
WIDE! Good leave this from Kohli. Walsh sprays one down the leg side. Kohli sees it and shoulders arms to it.
6.4
1
Short around off, Rahul this time cuts it to deep point for one.
6.3
1
Short around off, once again Kohli goes hard at it. It goes wide of point and they take a run.
6.2
4
FOUR! This should get the skipper going. A full ball on off, Kohli hammers this left of the bowler and to the long off fence. That went like a bullet.
6.1
.
Short around leg, Kohli makes room and cuts it to point.
Hayden Walsh is into the attack.
In over# 1
1
0
1
0
6
1
Khary Pierre 14/1(2)
5.6
1
Very good stop. Pollard saves a certain boundary there. Flighted on off, Kohli punches it to the right of cover. Pollard dives and saves a certain boundary. They take a single. India 50/1 at the end of the Powerplay.
5.5
.
Tossed up on the pads, VK flicks it to mid-wicket.
5.4
1
Very full on the pads. Almost a yorker. Rahul glances it towards mid-wicket for one.
5.3
.
Short outside off, Rahul cuts it but finds the man at point.
5.2
6
SIX! This is out of here. Rahul makes room outside leg. Pierre follows him. Rahul gets down on one knee and slog sweeps it over the square leg fence for a big hit.
5.1
1
Floated on off, Virat milks it to long on for one.
In over# 1
6
1
0
0
0
1
Sheldon Cottrell 19/0(3)
4.6
6
EDGY SIX! Lucky for Rahul! Short ball over middle stump line, Rahul goes for the pull but it goes off the top edge of the bat towards fine leg for a maximum. India need more of these.
4.5
1
The batsman defends it from within the crease. They pick up a single.
4.4
.
Slower delivery on off, Kohli pushes it towards the off side.
4.3
.
Inside edge saves Kohli there! Good bowling from Cottrell. He follows the short one with a full ball tailing back in from off. Kohli looks to flick but gets an inside edge onto the pads. Kohli wants a run as the ball rolls on the off side but is sent back. The bowler is appealing but the umpire shakes his head.
4.2
.
BEATEN! Short ball outside off, Kohli goes for the pull but fails to get any bat on it.
4.1
1
Full delivery on off, Rahul pushes this to mid off for a single.
In over# 1
0
1
0
0
2wd
0W
0
2wd
Khary Pierre 5/1(1)
3.6
.
Shorter on off, Kohli punches it to cover.
3.5
1
Flatter delivery on middle, Rahul whips it to deep square leg and takes a single.
3.4
.
Full delivery outside off, Rahul drives this but finds the cover fielder.
3.3
.
Flighted ball outside off, Rahul punches this to the off side.
3.3
2wd
TWO WIDES! Pierre drifts this full delivery down the leg side, Kohli lets it go. Ramdin fails to collect it cleanly and the ball rolls to short fine leg. The batters steal a leg bye.
Virat Kohli, the Indian skipper, is out in the middle. He has a tough job in his hands.
3.2
W
OUT! Caught! Stunned silence here as the Hitman starts walking back. The West Indies players are ecstatic. Darted around the pads, Rohit dances down the track and looks to clear the man at deep mid-wicket. He does not time it well and finds Shimron Hetmyer to perfection. He almost spills it but manages to hold onto it. Smart bowling this. They had a plan for Sharma and they have executed it really well. A big blow for India as Rohit has been a key batsmen for India, especially in big chases.
3.1
.
Very full on middle, Rohit jams it out.
3.1
2wd
WIDE! Pierre has a false start. He sprays it down the leg side. Rahul looks to flick but misses. Ramdin misses too behind the stumps allowing them to steal a run.
Khary Pierre is into the attack.
In over# 1
4
4b
1
1
0
1
Sheldon Cottrell 11/0(2)
2.6
4
FOUR! Smart shot. Good length ball outside off, Rohit just uses the pace of the ball and late cuts it fine down the third man region for a boundary.
2.5
4b
FOUR BYES! Slightly overcooks the bouncer. It is around the body, Sharma looks to hook but misses. The ball keeps rising and it goes over the keeper. Ramdin stretches to his maximum but cannot stop it. It has been signalled as a bye and a boundary.
2.4
1
Uppish but safe. Also a direct hit would have been close. Back of a length ball around the body. Rahul looks to pull but the ball lobs off his glove. However, it falls short of the man at square leg. Kesrick Williams there gets it on the bounce and has a shy at the bowler's end but misses.
2.3
1
Good length ball outside off, Rohit late cuts it to third man for a single.
A slight halt in play as Rahul has called for the physio to check on Rohit's forearm.
2.2
.
OUCH! That has hurt Rohit Sharma! Short ball on middle, Rohit is early into his pull shot and then misses it completely. He gets hit on the forearm and is looking in pain out there.
2.1
1
Short ball outside off, Rahul guides this to third man and gives the strike to Rohit Sharma.
In over# 1
1
0
4
4
0
4
Jason Holder 13/0(1)
1.6
1
Single to end the over. 13 from it. Poor start for Holder. Around off, Rahul plays it to point and keeps the strike. He is off to a brisk start.
1.5
.
Length delivery around off, KL dabs it to short third man.
1.4
4
FOUR! This is right off the meat! Good length ball outside off, Rahul crunches it through point for a brilliant boundary. Third one of the over. 12 off the over already.
1.3
4
FOUR! Almost chopped on. Back of a length ball around off, Rahul gets on his back foot and looks to pull. The ball goes off the bottom edge and over the leg pole. It races away to the fence. Unlucky for Holder but Rahul won't mind that.
1.2
.
Another attempt to cut but this time it is hit straight to the fielder. Good length ball outside off, Rahul cuts it to the man at point.
1.1
4
FOUR! Short and wide and put away! Short and outside off, width on offer and Rahul makes the bowler pay. He cuts it past point and the ball races away to the fence. First boundary of the chase and it is a good start to the over.
Jason Holder will bowl from the other end.
In over# 1
2
0
1
0
1
0
Sheldon Cottrell 4/0(1)
0.6
2
Around the pads, Rohit flicks it through mid-wicket and gets a couple. Good start from Cottrell. Just 4 runs off his first over.
0.5
.
Full toss but Rohit is unable to punish it. It is outside off, Rohit hits it hard but straight to the man at cover. He will be kicking himself as this was a freebie.
0.4
1
Rahul is off the mark. Full and swinging in. Rahul flicks it to deep square leg for a single.
0.3
.
Hint of movement for Cottrell. This starts on middle and then tails back in. Rahul looks to work it on the leg side but misses. It rolls beside the pitch. Rohit is halfway down the wicket but Rahul sends him back. Luckily for Rohit, Cottrell fails to pick the ball up.
0.2
1
India get underway! Good delivery this. Cottrell hits the deck hard around off. Once again it is a back of a length delivery. Rohit this time dabs it towards short third man and gets off the mark.
0.1
.
Cottrell starts with a back of a length ball on off. Rohit shows his composure and does not go at it from ball one. He defends this off the back foot.
The run chase is all set to begin! Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul make their way out to the middle in pursuit of 208. Sheldon Cottrell will start the proceedings for the visitors.
Hetmyer says that the wicket was very good for batting. Adds that they had a great start. On his return to form, Hetmyer says that he has been working hard in the nets and wants to keep going. Says that more than the technical shift, its all about mental strength. Tells that he tries to keep calm in the middle. Mentions that he loves playing in India. On the total, Hetmyer says the total is a good one and hopes that the bowlers will execute their plans.
Now, the total is a massive one. However, the Indians have some biggest names in the batting front. Will they be able to chase this down or will the West Indian bowlers be able to defend this one? Join us for the chase in a while. Before that, Hetmyer has been caught for a quick chat.
The bowling from the Indians were not upto the mark. They were bowling short and wide and a horror show from the fielders made things more difficult for them. Only Jadeja kept one end tight but apart from others, all of the bowlers were thumped by the West Indian batters. While Chahal got a couple of wickets to his name, he too could not contain the batters.
After being asked to bat first, the start for West Indies was not ideal. They lost Simmons early but Lewis and King added 51 runs between them. After the wicket of Lewis, King was joined by Hetmyer who looked in awesome touch and reached his first T20I half ton. However, the misfields and dropped chances made life easier for them. Pollard too, played a handy knock of 37 runs off just 19 balls.
A brilliant hand in the final two overs from Holder sees West Indies cross 200 and put a mountain batting first. A brilliant batting effort from the visitors this one.
19.6
2
Fullish ball on off, Ramdin drives this through mid off and calls Holder for a couple. The fielder has a shy at keeper's end but misses it. With that, WEST INDIES FINISH ON 207-5.
19.5
2
On a length outside off, Ramdin looks to go over extra cover but does not time it well. It just lands in front of the fielder. The batters take two.
19.4
1
Good length ball outside off, Holder drives towards the cover region and picks up another single.
19.3
6
SIX! Brilliant batting this from Holder! Good length ball outside off from Kumar, Holder just lofts this nonchalantly over the long off fence for a huge maximum. 200 up for the visitors.
19.2
2
Full delivery outside off, Holder drives through mid off and takes a couple.
19.1
4
DROPPED AND FOUR! This has been a poor night in the field for India! Kohli could have dived there to take the catch. Short ball outside off, Holder rocks on his back foot and then slams it towards long off. Kohli comes across and then tries to pouch it with a single hand. The ball rolls into the fence. Wonder why he did not go with both hands.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar will bowl the last over. Can the visitors reach 200?
In over# 1
1
6
2
1
1
1
Deepak Chahar 56/1(4)
18.6
1
A single to finish the 19th over. Slower one and a fullish length around off, Holder once again uses power to send it sailing over the fence but gets an inside edge onto the pads and goes towards the off side for a single.
18.5
6
SIX! Straight as arrow! A fullish ball around off, Holder stays in the crease and slams it over the bowler's head for a maximum. Brilliant stroke.
18.4
2
Short ball outside off, Holder drags it towards mid-wicket uppishly for a couple.
18.3
1
Another single. Just three from the first three balls. On middle and on a length. Ramdin tucks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
18.2
1
Full and around off again, Holder drives it through mid off for a single.
18.1
1
Shortish length outside off, Ramdin cuts it to deep cover for a single.
In over# 1
1
4
0
0W
1
0W
Yuzvendra Chahal 36/2(4)
17.6
1
Fuller and on middle, Ramdin works it towards mid-wicket for a single.
17.5
4
Misfield and Four! The poor show in the field for the hosts continues. A full ball just outside off, Ramdin creams it through the covers. Chahar from long off runs across to his left and looks to clean it away but he is slow in getting down and the ball goes to the fence.
17.4
.
Quicker and one closer to off pole, Ramdin gets his bat down in time to keep it out.
Denesh Ramdin is the new man in.
17.3
W
OUT! Bowled! Second wicket of the over from Chahal. Dangerous looking Pollard departs this time. A slightly shortish ball on middle and leg, Pollard looks to deposit this over the long on fence but misses it altogether. The ball goes behind and disturbs the leg pole.
17.2
1
Fuller ball and on off, Holder pushes it through mid off for a single.
Jason Holder replaces Shimron Hetmyer out in the middle.
17.1
W
OUT! Caught! This time Rohit makes no mistake. End of a brilliant knock from Hetmyer. A full ball on the pads, Hetmyer looks to whack it over deep backward square leg but the timing is not from the middle. The ball goes straight to Rohit Sharma, who this time pouches it easily.
In over# 1
1
1
6
6
2
1
Deepak Chahar 44/1(3)
16.6
1
Short ball on middle, Hetmyer pulls it wide of mid on for a single.
16.5
1
Full and on middle, Pollard drives it through mid on for a run.
16.4
6
SIX! No one can even think of getting to this one. It's a rocket. Short ball and outside off, Pollard makes the connection perfectly as he deposits this over the mid-wicket fence.
16.3
6
SIX! DROPPED! Oh dear, Rohit Sharma! That was as easy as it could get. A full ball on middle, Pollard looks to whip it over the long on fielder but the elevation is not there. It goes straight to Rohit who allows the ball to go through his hands and over the fence.
16.2
2
What an attempt from Rohit Sharma! Two in two balls for him. Short ball from Chahar on off, Pollard goes for the pull but it goes off the upper half of the bat. It goes towards long on and Rohit Sharma hares across from long on and then plucks it out with one hand. He then watches himself going past the ropes and then shows good awareness in throwing the ball back to the ground. Certainly stopped a certain boundary there. The batters take a couple.
16.1
1
DROPPED! Washington Sundar is not having a good day out there. First a misjudgement of the catch and now a dropped chance! Full delivery on middle, Hetmyer drives this uppishly straight down the ground. Sundar comes across from long on and dives to take the catch but fails to hold onto it. The ball is rolling towards the fence but Rohit Sharma who hares across from long off dives and saves the ball from reaching the fence. The umpire go upstairs to check whether it has touched the ropes but Sharma is clear on that front. A single is taken.
Bowling change! Deepak Chahar returns. 2-0-24-1 are his numbers.
In over# 1
1
2
0
6
1
1
Yuzvendra Chahal 30/0(3)
15.6
1
On the pads, Hetmyer tucks it towards mid-wicket for a single.
15.5
2
Short and outside off again, Hetmyer stays on the back foot and cuts it towards deep point. The fielder there throws the ball back to the keeper who cannot collect the ball cleanly as the ball bounces extra just in front of him. An overthrow conceded.
15.4
.
Flighted ball on middle, Hetmyer connects the sweep well but finds the fielder.
15.3
6
SIX! What timing! First T20I fifty for Hetmyer. Fuller ball around off, Hetmyer lines himself and powers it over the long off fence.
15.2
1
Short and outside off, Pollard slams it nicely but straight to mid off, so just a single.
15.1
1
What happened there? Seems like Sundar lost the sight of the ball. Hetmyer is lucky. Chahal bowls a rank long hop down the leg side, Hetmyer is expected to put these ones away all day long but this time gets a top edge which lobs off towards fine leg. Sundar over there does not see the ball and then slips as well. By the time he recovers, it is too late and the ball comes down safely.
In over# 1
0
1
0
1
1
0
Bhuvneshwar Kumar 19/0(3)
14.6
.
Good length delivery on middle, Pollard works it to square leg. Good over from Bhuvneshwar as only 3 runs have come from it.
14.5
1
On a length on off, Hetmyer pushes this through mid on and takes a single. Bhuvneshwar dives to stop it but fails to do so.
14.4
.
Fullish ball on middle, Shimron works it to square leg for nothing.
14.3
1
On middle, Pollard works it to the leg side and takes a single.
14.2
1
Good length ball on off, Shimron guides this towards point and takes a single.
14.1
.
Good length ball outside off, Hetmyer punches this to cover for nothing.
Bowling change! Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back on. 2-0-16-0 are his numbers so far.
In over# 1
1
1
6
1wd
0
0
0
Yuzvendra Chahal 19/0(2)
13.6
1
On the pads this time, Hetmyer tucks it towards the leg side and takes a quick run.
13.5
1
Slightly short on middle, Pollard works it towards mid-wicket and takes a single.
13.4
6
SIX! Wow! Superb timing. Just the extension of the arms. Slower through the air on middle, Pollard slams it over the long on fence.
13.4
1wd
WIDE! Chahal sprays down the leg side. Pollard looks to flick but makes no connection. Pant behind the wickets whips the bails off but Pollard never went out of the crease.
13.3
.
This time Pollard goes for a massive slog but no connection once again. Chahal fires this one outside off, far from the reach of Pollard. He though goes for the slog but misses.
13.2
.
Smart bowling. Chahal sees Pollard going across the leg stump and follows him. Kieron once again makes no connection and swings, only to get hit on the pad.
13.1
.
Slower through the air on middle, Pollard looks to nudge it on the leg side but makes no connection and gets hit on the pad.
Yuzvendra Chahal is back into the attack. His figures read 1-0-10-1 so far.
In over# 1
4
6
0
1
0
1
Ravindra Jadeja 30/1(4)
12.6
4
FOUR! Short ball outside off, Hetmyer rocks on his back foot and punches this towards cover. Kohli there misfields and allows the ball go through to the fence. He is disgusted with himself. With this, Jadeja is done and his figures are 4-0-30-1.
12.5
6
SIX! Hammered! Loopy ball on middle, Hetmyer goes on his knees and then sweeps it over the deep square leg region for a maximum.
12.4
.
Flatter delivery outside off, Hetmyer guides it to short third man for nothing.
12.3
1
Floated ball on middle, Pollard works it to the deep mid-wicket region and takes a single.
12.2
.
Flatter delivery on middle, Pollard pushes it back to the bowler.
12.1
1
Flatter delivery on the pads, Hetmyer works it to deep mid-wicket and gives Pollard the strike.
In over# 1
1
0
1
6
4
1
Shivam Dube 13/0(1)
11.6
1
Short ball again. Hetmyer once again easily pulls it towards deep mid-wicket for a single. 12 from the first over of Dube.
11.5
.
Good length ball on off, Hetmyer blocks it off the front foot.
11.4
1
Good length ball on middle, Pollard this time pushes it through mid on for a single.
11.3
6
SIX! Pollard into the act now. The Indians continue to bowl short. This is outside off too. Pollard once again rocks back and hammers it over deep mid-wicket fence. First one of the innings for him.
11.2
4
FOUR! Pulled away! Shortish ball on middle, Pollard rocks back and pulls it wide of the long on fielder. No chance for anyone there.
11.1
1
He starts with a fuller length ball on middle, Hetmyer clips it towards mid-wicket for a single.
Shivam Dube is into the attack.
In over# 1
1
0
0
4
1
0W
Ravindra Jadeja 18/1(3)
10.6
1
The batsman flicks it away with a wristy shot. The batsmen have run through for a single.
10.5
.
BEATEN! Flatter delivery outside off, Shimron looks to cut it off the back foot but misses it. Jadeja is confident in his appeal but the umpire shakes his head. The Indians think of a review but decide against it.
10.4
.
Short ball outside off, Hetmyer guides this ball to short third man.
10.3
4
FOUR! Beautiful shot! Short and on middle from Jadeja, Hetmyer rocks on his back foot and pulls it towards long on. Sundar comes across from long on and puts in a dive but fails to stop it and the ball goes for a boundary.
10.2
1
Full delivery on middle, Pollard defends it towards mid-wicket and gets off the mark with a single.
Skipper Kieron Pollard is in at no. 5.
10.1
W
OUT! STUMPED! King has to go back. Poor shot! There was no need of this shot. These two were going well and this might just give the India the opening they need to get back in this game. Jadeja, sees the batsman running down the track, drags his ball short. King looks to heave the ball away but it goes past his bat. Pant behind the stumps, pouches it and whips off the bails. King was nowhere in the picture.
In over# 1
1
1
0
2
6
0
Yuzvendra Chahal 10/0(1)
9.6
1
Full delivery on middle, King flicks it to deep square leg and takes a single.
9.5
1
Flatter delivery outside off, Hetmyer punches this off the back foot to cover and picks up a single. 100 up for the visitors and it has come in quick time.
9.4
.
On middle, defended back to the bowler.
9.3
2
Short ball outside off, Shimron punches the ball through covers and picks up an easy couple.
9.2
6
SIX! BANG! Brilliant stuff this. This is what West Indies are known for. Flighted ball on off, Hetmyer bends down on his knees and plays the sweep shot over the long on fence for a maximum.
9.1
.
Chahal too like the others starts with a short ball outside off, Hetmyer cuts it but finds the point fielder on the bounce.
Bowling change! Yuzvendra Chahal is into the attack.
In over# 1
0
1
1
1
0
6
Ravindra Jadeja 12/0(2)
8.6
.
Defended off the front foot by the batsman presenting the full face of the bat.
8.5
1
Short delivery outside off, Hetmyer punches this off the back foot to deep cover and takes a single.
8.4
1
Full on middle, King works it to the leg side and takes the single.
8.3
1
Flatter delivery outside off, Hetmyer punches this towards deep point and picks up a single.
8.2
.
Floated ball on middle, Hetmyer looks to flick it but it goes off the leading edge towards point where the fielder collects it on the bounce.
8.1
6
SIX! India keep bowling short and they keep getting put away! Jadeja bowls this one on off, Hetmyer rocks on his back foot and thrashes it over the long on fence for a maximum.
In over# 1
0
1
1
4
1wd
4
1
Washington Sundar 34/1(3)
7.6
.
Quicker ball outside off this time. King goes for the pull but misses. A dot to finish the over.
7.5
1
On middle, pushed through mid-wicket for a single.
7.4
1
Short again, King goes on the back foot and punches it towards the on side for a single.
7.3
4
FOUR! But a brilliant effort at long on by KL Rahul. He almost pulls off a stunner. Another shortish length ball, King looks to hammer it over long on but can't get the timing perfect. KL Rahul from long on hares ahead and looks to catch but the ball lands short and evades him to go to the fence.
7.3
1wd
WIDE! Down the leg side this time. King looks to flick but misses. Called wide!
7.2
4
FOUR! Nicely done! Good use of the feet as well. Slightly short and outside off, King skips down the track and smashes it through covers for a boundary.
7.1
1
Quicker one and on middle, Hetmyer works it towards mid-wicket for a single.
In over# 1
1
0
1
1
0
1lb
Ravindra Jadeja 3/0(1)
6.6
1
Jadeja goes short yet again! Hetmyer pulls it to deep mid-wicket to keep strike for the next over.
6.5
.
Short ball on middle, defended out by Hetmyer.
6.4
1
Tossed up ball on middle, King works it to the leg side for another run.
6.3
1
Full delivery on middle, Shimron works it to mid on and takes a single.
6.2
.
Lucky! That should have been put away! Short ball outside off, Hetmyer rocks on his back foot and cuts it but it goes on the bounce to the point fielder.
6.1
1lb
OHH! Jadeja starts with a flat delivery on middle and leg, King looks to flick it but misses. It goes off the pads and lobs over the jumping Kohli at first slip. A leg bye taken. There was a stifled appeal for LBW but nothing doing says the umpire.
Field restrictions are lifted and the birthday boy, Ravindra Jadeja is into the attack!
In over# 1
0
2
0W
0
6
1
Washington Sundar 22/1(2)
5.6
.
Another ball on the pads, this is fuller. Hetmyer nudges it towards fine leg. At the end of the Powerplay, West Indies are 66/2.
5.5
2
On the pads, Hetmyer glances it behind square for a couple.
Shimron Hetmyer is the new man in.
5.4
W
OUT! LBW! Sundar strikes! The commentator's curse there. A fullish length ball on middle, slower through the air. Lewis gets in position to sweep but makes no connection as he plays the shot early. The ball hits the pads. Sundar and the keeper put in an appeal. The umpire raises his finger instantly to send Lewis back. He goes to King regarding the review but decides against it. Looked touch and go there. The replays roll in and it shows that it would've been umpire's call on impact and also hitting the wickets, so the DRS would not have helped.
5.3
.
Short and outside off again, Lewis cuts well but finds the point fielder.
5.2
6
SIX! Excellent batting. 50-run stand is up between the two. Lewis loves batting against the Indians. And he has got a top start. A flighted ball outside off, a little bit of room for Lewis. He opens his arm and hammers it over the deep cover fence.
5.1
1
He again starts with a shortish length ball around off, King stays on the back foot and pulls it through mid on for a single.
Washington Sundar replaces Deepak Chahar into the attack.
In over# 1
4
6
0
0
1
0
Bhuvneshwar Kumar 16/0(2)
4.6
4
FOUR! Well played! India need the wicket of Lewis as soon as possible. He is on a rampage at Hyderabad. Good length ball down the leg side, Lewis is aware of the field and then helps it on its way to the fine leg fence for a boundary. 57 runs have come off the first five overs. The visitors are cruising even with the loss of the early wicket.
4.5
6
SIX! Thumped! Full delivery outside off, Lewis prods forward and lifts this over the cover fielder for his third maximum of the game. Lewis is looking really dangerous out there.
4.4
.
Slower delivery on off, Lewis defends it towards mid off. Rohit comes across from cover to collect but lets it through his legs. Luckily for him, no run is taken.
4.3
.
On off, Lewis pushes this towards cover for nothing.
4.2
1
Full delivery on off, King pushes it to cover and picks up a single. Kohli has a shy at the keeper's end and hits but Lewis was well in.
4.1
.
BOUNCER! Kumar bowls it at 127.7 kph and the ball goes over the head of the batsman. King ducks under it.
In over# 1
1
6
0
1
1wd
4
6
Deepak Chahar 27/1(2)
3.6
1
Good length delivery on off, King defends it to mid off and takes off for a quick single. Another big over for the visitors. 19 runs have come off it.
3.5
6
SIX! Why is Chahar bowling short? The swinging full deliveries were working well for him and then why would you change the length? Another short ball on off, King stands tall and pulls it over the deep square leg region for the second maximum of the over.
3.4
.
Outside off, King pushes this to cover.
3.3
1
Good length ball on middle and leg, Lewis whips it towards mid-wicket and takes a single. Lewis wants the double but is sent back by King. Rightly so.
3.3
1wd
WIDE! Good length ball way outside off, Lewis lets it go and it is wided.
3.2
4
FOUR! Lewis is on a rampage out there. Chahar goes short again, outside off this time, Lewis rocks on his back foot and cuts it past the point fielder for a boundary.
3.1
6
SIX! That is outrageous! Poor bowling though from Chahar! Short ball down the leg side, Lewis swivels and pulls it over the fine leg region for a huge maximum. Second one for him in this innings.
In over# 1
0
2
1
1
1lb
1
Bhuvneshwar Kumar 5/0(1)
2.6
.
On a length outside off, Brandon punches this off the back foot to cover for nothing.
2.5
2
Short ball on middle, King pulls this towards mid-wicket and picks up an easy two before the fielder can hare after it and clean it up.
2.4
1
Full delivery on middle and leg, Lewis drives this towards mid on and takes off for a quick single. The fielder has a shy at the bowler's end but misses. It would not have mattered as Lewis was well in.
2.3
1
King pushes this length ball around off to third man for a single.
2.2
1lb
On a length on the pads, Lewis looks to flick it but it hits the pads and rolls to square leg. They steal a leg bye. Bhuvneshwar appeals but the umpire is not interested.
2.1
1
Full delivery on middle, King works it to deep square leg and takes off for a single.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar to bowl. Just one over of spin from Sundar.
In over# 1
1
4
1
1
1wd
0W
0
Deepak Chahar 8/1(1)
1.6
1
On a length on middle, King works it to deep square leg and takes a single. A successful first over comes to an end from Chahar.
1.5
4
FOUR! Shot! Full delivery outside off, King lunges forward and creams the drive through covers for his first boundary. It was uppish for a while but wide of the cover fielder.
1.4
1
Chahar goes full on off, Lewis drives it through mid off and picks up a single.
1.3
1
OHH! Full delivery swinging away, King looks to drive it but finds the outer half of the bat. The ball rolls to third man. King gets off the mark with a single.
1.3
1wd
Wide! Good length ball down the leg side, King looks to flick it but misses it. The umpire signals it a wide.
Brandon King is the new man in.
1.2
W
OUT! CAUGHT! Brilliant stuff from Chahar! He has made giant strides since he toured the West Indies earlier. Simmons has to make the long walk back to the pavilion. Fullish delivery outside off, Simmons goes for the drive but finds the outside edge to Rohit Sharma at first slip. Sharma there makes no mistake. After a poor first over, India have broken through early.
1.1
.
Chahar starts with a good length delivery on off, Simmons defends it off the back foot.
Deepak Chahar to bowl from the other end.
In over# 1
1
1
0
6
4
1
Washington Sundar 13/0(1)
0.6
1
Floated delivery on middle, Simmons works it to mid-wicket and takes a single to keep strike for the next over.
0.5
1
Fullish ball on off, Lewis sweeps it but there is a fielder stationed at deep square leg. Single taken.
0.4
.
Flatter delivery outside off, Lewis cuts it but finds the point fielder on the bounce.
0.3
6
SIX! What is Sundar doing? This is poor bowling! He goes for another short ball on middle, Lewis camps back and hammers the pull over the deep square leg fence for a maximum. 11 off the first three balls.
0.2
4
FOUR! Poor start by Washington Sundar! Short delivery on the middle and leg stump line, Evin rocks on his back foot and swivels it past the fine leg fielder for the first boundary of the game. Lewis is off the mark with a bang.
0.1
1
Sundar starts with a flatter delivery on off, Simmons gets off the mark by flicking this to deep mid-wicket for a single and Windies are underway.
We are all set to begin. The West Indies openers, Evin Lewis and Lendl Simmons walk out to the middle. They are followed by the Indian team led by skipper Kohli. Washington Sundar will start the proceedings for the hosts.
Both set of players walk out to the middle for their respective National Anthems. We are not far away from the toss.
Before we start, Harsha Bhogle has got Shreyas Iyer for an interview. Iyer says that 6 people celebrate birthdays on this day (at least he knows 6). On his birthday plans, Iyer says that there are no such plans and hopes for a good game and then plans for celebration. Adds that domestic games are always helpful and once he gets an opportunity, he goes to play those games. Tells that one good knock in those games, the confidence grows and then one can carry on the same form forward. Feels that once the bat meets the ball nicely early on, one can get the intuition that the day could be his. On his bowling during domestic cricket, Iyer says that the team management wants him to add another armory in his game and hence whenever he gets an opportunity he rolls his arm.
West Indies Playing XI - Lendl Simmons, Evin Lewis, Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Kieron Pollard (C), Denesh Ramdin (WK), Jason Holder, Hayden Walsh, Sheldon Cottrell, Kesrick Williams, Khary Pierre.
India Playing XI - Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli (C), Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Yuzvendra Chahal.
West Indies skipper, Kieron Pollard says that toss is 50/50 and when you practice you practice every scenario. Adds now they will have to bat well. Tells they are not looking at other factors and are just looking to prepare themselves. Pollard says they can expect the guys to be exciting as they are eager to show their talent and are looking to play with a smile on their face. Informs Pooran, Rutherford, Allen, Paul are the four guys missing out.
The Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, says that there will be dew in the second innings and hence they want to chase. Tells that the wicket looks beautiful to bat and they want to stick to their strength of chasing. Adds that they do follow some of the stats but mentions that since toss is not in their control, they do use it sometimes. On return of Shami and Bhuvneshwar to the squad, the Indian skipper feels that it is always good to get experienced players back in the rank. On Pant, Kohli says that at the international level, things are overcomplicated. Mentions that he wants Pant to just see and hit the ball and enjoy the game. On the playing XI, the skipper mentions that Manish Pandey, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Shami miss out from this game.
TOSS - We are all in readiness for the toss. Indian skipper has the coin in hand. Up it goes and it comes down in favour of Virat Kohli. INDIA OPT TO BOWL!
PITCH REPORT - Murali Kartik and Sunil Gavaskar are down with the pitch report. Gavaskar says it is a beautiful pitch though there are some cracks which might help the spinners but he feels it is a good pitch to bat on. Kartik adds that the pitch is really hard and informs us teams batting first have won 5 times and teams chasing have won 3 times. Further adds that the average score batting here is 172. Gavaskar thinks India would like to test their bench strength before the World Cup next year. Gavaskar feels the team winning the toss will look to bowl.
Hello and welcome to the 1st T20I between India and West Indies. The visitors would be looking to get back to winning ways in the shortest format of the game after surrendering a 1-game lead and losing the 3-match series against Afghanistan. Kieron Pollard and his troops would be looking to right the wrongs and put on a show against a strong Indian side. The hosts, on the other hand, would be looking to make it two T20I series wins in a row and hand another loss to the Caribbean team after defeating them in their own backyard. It will be interesting to see whether Rishabh Pant continues to get his chance or will Sanju Samson get in a look. We are set for some thrilling action. What is in store? Stay tuned to find out as the toss is not far away.