WI scripts highest T20I chase vs India

The Cliff News | 10 October 2026

The West Indies produced a record-breaking performance to chase down a formidable target of 250 against India in the second T20I, levelling the five-match series at 1-1. The remarkable chase, completed in just 18.3 overs, marks the Caribbean side's highest successful pursuit of a T20I total against the Men in Blue.

Shai Hope was the architect of the historic victory, remaining unbeaten on 102, a dazzling century off just 45 deliveries. He was brilliantly supported by Sherfane Rutherford, who smashed 84 from 37 balls, as the duo put on a match-defining 120-run partnership in only 54 balls. The West Indies' successful chase signifies a significant comeback after their loss in the opening match.

Gambhir Takes Responsibility, Declines Excuses

Despite facing challenging conditions with significant dew impacting the bowlers, India head coach Gautam Gambhir refused to attribute the six-wicket defeat to external factors like the toss or a dropped catch. Instead, he squarely placed the responsibility on the team for failing to defend a substantial total of 249.

Gambhir stated unequivocally, "I don't blame anyone, and I don't blame anything. The bottom line is that we could not defend 250. They batted extremely well, and they deserved to win." He emphasized the need for the team to adapt and find solutions for defending large scores, especially when playing against potent T20 outfits like the West Indies.

"We still have a lot of work to do because, when you play against dangerous teams like the West Indies, you need to figure out how to defend a total, especially when you lose the toss."

The head coach acknowledged that while the toss is beyond control and dropped catches are part of the sport, these cannot be used as excuses for falling short. Gambhir stressed that the team must learn from every defeat, particularly as a team with the pedigree of a world champion, and continuously strive for improvement.

Chasing a High Score on a Dew-Affected Pitch

The match, held in Ranchi, saw India post their highest-ever T20I total against the West Indies, reaching 249/5 thanks to scintillating batting performances. Sanju Samson returned to form with a superb 82, complemented by quickfire innings from Shreyas Iyer (40 off 18 balls) and Tilak Varma (44 not out off 18 deliveries). Samson and Ishan Kishan (43 off 22 balls) forged a crucial 97-run partnership for the second wicket, setting a strong foundation.

However, the Indian bowlers struggled to contain the West Indian onslaught, with heavy dew making it difficult to grip the ball. A crucial moment in the game was a dropped catch by Mayank Yadav when Rutherford was on 38, a lapse that ultimately proved costly. Despite the difficult bowling conditions, Gambhir insisted that the team needed to find ways to restrict the opposition, especially after the West Indies had lost two wickets in the first over and three within the first six.

Mayank's Early Firepower Not Enough

Young fast bowler Mayank Yadav provided an early spark for India, bowling at speeds exceeding 140 kmph. He struck twice in the opening over, dismissing Kamil Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer off successive deliveries. Yadav further impressed by bowling out Rovman Powell with a searing 149 kmph delivery.

However, Gambhir cautioned against judging the game solely on the opening exchanges. He highlighted that cricket matches are won and lost through consistent performance over the entire 40 overs, not just the first over. Gambhir also backed Yadav to continue bowling at his natural pace, asserting that a fast bowler's role is to bowl fast, regardless of the speed.

"A fast bowler should bowl like a fast bowler. He is not a slower bowler. If you can bowl at 150 kmph, bowl at 150. If you can bowl at 120, bowl at 120. When you are playing as a fast bowler, it is your duty to bowl fast, like a fast bowler."

A Call for Balanced Contests

Responding to questions about the pitch conditions, following another high-scoring encounter, Gambhir expressed his desire for a balanced contest between bat and ball. He emphasized that while spectators enjoy explosive hitting, bowlers also deserve an even playing field, as their careers are equally at stake.

Gambhir advocated for pitches that offer a fair competition, suggesting that such conditions would lead to better quality cricket overall. He acknowledged that his bowlers are as capable as any in the world and that they too have worked hard to reach their current level. A balanced pitch, he believes, would allow both aspects of the game to shine.

Hope and Rutherford Lead the Charge

The West Indies' pursuit was anchored by the exceptional batting of Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford. Hope's century was a masterclass in T20 batting, punctuated by six fours and nine sixes. Rutherford provided crucial acceleration with his aggressive knock of 84, featuring seven fours and seven sixes.

The partnership between Hope and Rutherford turned the tide of the match, dismantling the Indian bowling attack despite the early setbacks. The duo's fearless approach, particularly against the spinners on a dew-laden ground, showcased the West Indies' potent batting lineup. The chase was further bolstered by a late cameo from Romario Shepherd, who scored 34 off just 13 balls, sealing the victory for his team.