Kuldeep's magic, centuries from Gill and Kohli—India beat West Indies by 8 wickets in the first ODI

XtraTime Web Desk

Kuldeep Yadav’s magical spell with the ball, followed by centuries from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli with the bat, helped India beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the first ODI of the series. The victory also saw Kohli achieve another historic milestone, becoming only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to score 15,000 runs in ODI cricket.

After winning the toss, India captain Shubman Gill opted to bowl first. The West Indies got off to a flying start, with John Campbell and Justin Greaves putting together a 135-run opening partnership. At one stage, the Caribbean side were cruising at 176 for one.

However, Kuldeep Yadav changed the course of the game in spectacular fashion. The Indian wrist-spinner claimed four wickets in just 10 overs, conceding 40 runs. Within 34 balls, West Indies slipped from 176 for one to 198 for five.

Campbell scored 62, while Greaves produced a brilliant 101. Amir was the other major contributor, remaining unbeaten on 58 as West Indies eventually finished at 295 for seven.

India’s chase was far more comfortable. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave India a solid start before Rohit was dismissed for 32. Gill then joined forces with Virat Kohli, and the pair took complete control of the chase.

Gill eventually departed for 110, but Kohli remained unbeaten on a magnificent 139. The duo added 151 runs together as India reached 300 for two in just 41.4 overs.

Gill was brilliant, Kohli was outstanding, but it was Kuldeep Yadav who set the tone for India’s victory with his game-changing spell. His four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Match award.