India vs West Indies 2nd Test Day 3 Highlights: John Campbell and Shai Hope both hit unbeaten fifties as West Indies finished the third day of the second Test at 173 for 2 against India on Sunday and Kuldeep keep going fight against them.
India Dominate Early as Kuldeep Claims Fifth Test Five-For
On Day 3 of the 2nd Test, India seized control early. Kuldeep Yadav delivered a masterclass with the ball. He finished with figures of 5 for 82. Consequently, West Indies folded for just 248 in their first innings. Notably, this marked Kuldeep’s fifth five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Moreover, his performance came in only his 15th Test match. Therefore, he continues to defy the myth of being a “conditions-dependent” bowler. In fact, he now averages a five-for every three Tests—an exceptional record.
West Indies Enforced to Follow On After Massive Deficit
India’s first-innings total of 518 created a 270-run lead. As a result, West Indies were asked to follow on. Initially, their second innings looked shaky. They lost two quick wickets and slumped to 35 for 2. However, everything changed after tea. John Campbell shifted gears dramatically. He adopted an aggressive approach against both spinners and pacers. Thus, he sparked a stunning counterattack that revived WI’s hopes.
Campbell and Hope Forge Vital Unbroken Partnership
John Campbell remained unbeaten on 87 at stumps. Alongside him, Shai Hope scored a solid 66 not out. Together, they added 138 runs without being separated. Importantly, these are the only half-centuries West Indies have recorded in the entire series. Furthermore, their fearless batting forced India into defensive field placements. For instance, Kuldeep bowled with three deep fielders—an unusual sight for a spinner. Nevertheless, the duo rotated strike intelligently and punished loose deliveries.
Pitch Offers Little Assistance Despite Spinner’s Success
Interestingly, the Arun Jaitley Stadium pitch showed minimal wear. Although occasional deliveries kept low, batting wasn’t overly difficult. Ravindra Jadeja admitted spinners had to rely on extra shoulder effort to generate zip. Meanwhile, Kuldeep and Washington Sundar bowled over 80 overs combined. Fatigue became visible as the day progressed. Even so, Campbell and Hope played confidently off the back foot. They struck boundaries regularly—Campbell hit nine fours and two sixes, while Hope smashed eight boundaries and two maximums.
West Indies Still Trail but Avoid Immediate Collapse
At stumps, West Indies stood at 173 for 2 in their second innings. They still need 97 more runs to avoid an innings defeat. However, their resilience on Day 3 offered a glimmer of hope. Coach Darren Sammy will take heart from this performance. After all, it shows some players can still compete with purpose. Additionally, this fightback could boost their confidence ahead of their New Zealand tour.
Kuldeep’s Magic Begins with Dismissal of Set Batsman
The turning point of the morning session came when Kuldeep dismissed Shai Hope. Hope was well set on 36. Then, Kuldeep altered his angle and bowled quicker with sharp drift. The ball beat Hope’s outside edge and crashed into the stumps. Immediately after, the West Indies batting order crumbled. In just seven overs, they lost four wickets. Tevin Imlach and Justin Greaves fell to rash shots. Soon, the innings was all but over.
Siraj and Bumrah Clean Up Tail Efficiently
Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah supported Kuldeep brilliantly. Siraj removed Jomel Warrican with a full delivery that nipped back in. Bumrah, though less menacing than usual, maintained tight lines. Together, they ensured no lower-order resistance. Kharry Pierre and Anderson Phillip added 46 for the ninth wicket. Yet, it was never enough to prevent the follow-on. Ultimately, India’s bowlers executed their plans with precision and discipline.
Final Outlook: India in Command but WI Show Spirit
India remain firm favorites to win the match. Their bowling attack exposed West Indies’ fragility once again. However, Campbell and Hope’s defiance added intrigue to the contest. If they continue on Day 4, WI might just avoid an innings loss. Regardless, Kuldeep Yadav has already stamped his authority. His consistent wicket-taking proves his growing stature in Test cricket. Meanwhile, India will aim to wrap up the game swiftly and seal the series.