India (518/5d & 124/3) beat West Indies (248 & 390) by 7 wickets — Delhi, October 10–14, 2025
Published: October 14, 2025 · Match Report & Tactical Breakdown
Quick Match Summary
India completed a convincing 2–0 series sweep over the West Indies, sealing the second Test in Delhi by 7 wickets. A massive first-innings total of 518/5 declared gave India control from Day 2, and they chased the modest target of 121 comfortably on the final morning.
Key scorelines: India 518/5d & 124/3; West Indies 248 & 390 (follow-on). India wrapped up the series in commanding fashion, maintaining dominance throughout the match.
Scorecard Highlights
Top Indian Batters: Yashasvi Jaiswal (175) and Shubman Gill (129) led the charge in the first innings.
West Indies’ Effort: Showed resistance in their second innings (390) but the deficit was too large to overcome.
Player of the Match: Kuldeep Yadav for key wickets in both innings.
Player of the Series: Ravindra Jadeja for consistent all-round performances.
Series Result: India won 2–0, claiming all 40 West Indies wickets across the two Tests.
Match Timeline (Day-by-Day)
- Day 1–2 (India 1st Innings): India batted first and piled on 518/5 declared. Centuries from Jaiswal and Gill ensured a commanding position.
- Day 2–3 (WI 1st Innings): West Indies struggled against India’s spin attack and were bowled out for 248.
- Day 3–4 (WI 2nd Innings): Following on, West Indies batted much better and reached 390, showing resilience and better application.
- Day 5 (India 2nd Innings): India chased 121 for victory, led by KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 to seal the series 2–0.
Tactical & Technical Analysis
1) Batting Dominance
India’s first innings batting set the tone. Their ability to build long partnerships and maintain a scoring rate above 3.5 runs per over nullified the West Indies’ attack. Both openers played with patience and confidence, creating pressure through rotation and stroke play.
2) Spin and Seam Balance
The combination of Kuldeep Yadav’s wrist spin and Mohammed Siraj’s reverse swing dismantled the opposition. India’s bowlers were disciplined, maintaining consistent lines while allowing the spinners to exploit rough patches on Day 3 and 4.
3) West Indies’ Fightback
The visitors’ second innings was their best showing of the tour. Partnerships through the middle order, particularly from Shai Hope and John Campbell gave the innings substance. However, inconsistency in handling spin and lapses in concentration cost them crucial wickets.
4) Captaincy & Strategy
Shubman Gill’s leadership was composed and proactive. His field placements and bowling rotations showed tactical awareness. India’s decision to enforce the follow-on displayed confidence in the bowling unit and paid off perfectly.
Key Moments That Decided the Match
- India’s huge first-innings total (518/5d) took control early.
- Kuldeep Yadav’s double strikes late on Day 2 broke West Indies’ backbone.
- Ravindra Jadeja’s tight spells kept pressure in the second innings.
- KL Rahul’s steady 58* ensured a calm chase on the final day.
Stats Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Result | India won by 7 wickets (Series: 2–0) |
| Top Scorer | Yashasvi Jaiswal – 175 |
| Best Bowling | Kuldeep Yadav – 8 wickets in the match |
| Player of the Series | Ravindra Jadeja |
Looking Ahead
India’s dominance at home continues, and their young core is shaping into a formidable Test lineup. The balance between spin and pace remains a key strength. For West Indies, this series highlighted the need for consistency — especially in the top order and handling quality spin.
Both teams now turn their attention to the upcoming World Test Championship fixtures, where India’s momentum could be crucial in pushing for a top-two finish.
