India bounced back from their WTC Final disappointment to clinch a convincing 1-0 win in the IND vs WI Test series. Rohit Sharma and Co were denied a chance to claim a whitewash by incessant rain on Day 5 of the Trinidad Test. The series marked the beginning of a transition for the Indian Cricket Team in the longest format of the game. Fortunately for Rahul Dravid and the Men in Blue, the side managed to tick some boxes during the India vs West Indies series.
The West Indies series was important as it kickstarted the new World Test Championship cycle. With a tour to South Africa and a home series and a series against England coming up post-WC, Rohit Sharma will be pleased with how his side is shaping up. While any series win over the Wet Indies should be treated with caution, there still remain positives for the Men in Blue.
Also Read: India SLIPS to 2nd SPOT in WTC Standings after IND vs WI 2nd Test washout
Yashasvi Jaiswal nails Test debut
Before the series began, all eyes were on Yashasvi Jaiswal heading into his first international series. 3 innings later, we know why. The 21-year-old seamlessly adapted to international cricket, building a strong partnership with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. The left-hander smashed a massive 171 in the IND vs WI 1st Test, the third-highest by an Indian on debut. He followed it up with scores of 57 and 30 in the 2nd Test. Yashasvi looked comfortable against both pace and spin, while also showcasing his range of shots. He also shifted gears with effortless ease confirming his berth at the top of the order.
Ishan Kishan fills Rishabh Pant void
Rishabh Pant’s injury left India without a keeper. KS Bharat dutifully filled in during the home series and the WTC Final. While he excelled with gloves, his batting was found wanting hurting India’s chances. Ishan Kishan was thus thrown into the mix during the IND vs WI series. The left hander faced 20 balls for a solitary run in the 1st Test as Rohit declared the innings. In the second Test, he slammed his maiden Test fifty. Kishan went hard at the WI bowling in a manner Rishabh played. He was also good behind the stumps both with gloves and his chatter. With Pant out for a considerable period, Kishan can consider his spot nailed in the side.
India adopt Bazball
Bazball has been the talk of the town ever since England introduced their aggressive style of play under coach Brendon McCullum. Captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid have in the past spoken about playing aggressive cricket. However, they have been guilty of playing safe than try and force a result. During the WI series, India forced the issue to ensure a result was possible. In the first innings, Rohit-Jaiswal scored at nearly 5 runs an over. The second innings, India scored at more than 7 an over to post 181/2 in 26 overs.
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