Considering the ever grim atmosphere surrounding the Indian setup since the last week or so, a dominating victory was the ideal remedy needed for the men in blue. On a glorious and warm Sunday, the team got just that as the Virat Kohli-led side decimated the West Indies to round off a 105 run victory and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
The stars of the day for India were Ajinkya Rahane and debutant Kuldeep Yadav. Rahane, who has had a start-stop ODI career till now, played an absolutely fluent knock as he amassed the third century of his ODI career. It was a knock filled with an array of eye-catching and delightful strokes.
While defending 311 in 43 overs later, it was debutant Kuldeep Yadav who enjoyed a ball as he picked up three wickets to crush the chase. Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar too chipped in with two wickets right at the top.
Post the victory, Virat Kohli lauded the team and particularly mentioned his delight for Kuldeep Yadav.
“It was a complete performance again,” said Kohli. “The partnership between Ajinkya and Shikhar was outstanding, and myself at the back end, with Yuvi, MS and Kedar chipping in. Early wickets for Bhuvi, and really happy for Kuldeep as well bowling for the first time and taking three wickets. The bench strength has always been right up there for us.”
Hinting that the team could make a few changes, he added, “Jinks couldn’t get a game in the Champions Trophy, unfortunately, but shows his mental strength, steps in and scores runs. We’ll sit down and decide as a team about changes that can be made. We’ll go to Antigua and regroup, and that’s a possibility as well, give a few guys an opportunity.”
Ajinkya Rahane was named the Man of the Match for his ton, and he admitted his rapport with Shikhar Dhawan at the top was great indeed.
“Really happy with the way I played today, even in the first game. Didn’t get an opportunity in the Champions Trophy, and I was hungry. It’s lovely to open with Shikhar. He’s in great form, we understand each other’s game really well. We complement each other. The wicket was slightly damp initially. We wanted to take our time initially, as well as play our shots,” said Rahane.