The third day of the opening Test match between India and West Indies transformed into a personal showcase for Ravindra Jadeja, who single-handedly steered India to a comprehensive innings victory. After India declared their first innings overnight at a commanding 448 for 5, boasting a massive 286-run lead, Jadeja unleashed his magic on a turning pitch. He ripped through the West Indies’ fragile batting order, claiming four crucial wickets as the visitors collapsed to a mere 146 all out in just 45.1 overs.
India’s spin attack proved irresistible from the very beginning of the day. Jadeja, fresh off his magnificent unbeaten century (104 runs), quickly made his presence felt with the ball. He dismissed John Campbell for a modest 14 and then sent Brandon King back to the pavilion for just 5 runs. The seasoned spinner continued his destructive spell, adding the wickets of Shai Hope and Johann Layne, further accelerating West Indies’ batting collapse. Supporting him admirably was fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who also impressed by picking up three vital wickets, including the early scalp of opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul for 8 runs.
The West Indies’ struggle with the bat was painfully evident. They found themselves in deep trouble, having lost their first five wickets for a paltry 46 runs. While Alick Athanaze offered a brief flicker of hope with a 38-run contribution, and Justin Greaves added 25, the rest of their lineup crumbled, offering minimal resistance against India’s relentless and disciplined bowling unit.
Jadeja concluded with exceptional figures of 4 for 54, while Siraj chipped in with 3 for 31. Kuldeep Yadav also made an impact with 2 for 23, and Sundar contributed with 1 for 18. India’s spinners skillfully exploited every rough patch and variation in the pitch, leaving the West Indies reeling and securing a resounding victory by an innings and 140 runs.
This stellar performance underscored not only Ravindra Jadeja’s remarkable all-round capabilities but also highlighted the impressive depth of India’s spin bowling arsenal. The Indian team has now firmly seized control of the series, demonstrating undeniable dominance with both bat and ball.