India’s tour of West Indies kickstarted with a resounding victory for the visitors in the opening ODI. The Windies’ batting lineup was dismantled, scoring a meager 114 runs in the first innings, and India comfortably chased down the target in just 23 overs, winning the match by five wickets. Amid the stellar performance, a peculiar moment grabbed attention – the batting position of India’s ace batter, Virat Kohli.
Known for his destructive batting in the top order, the 34-year-old etched his name into a unique record after the first ODI. Surprisingly, Kohli did not come in to bat after the fall of the first wicket, as is customary. Furthermore, he didn’t step on the crease even after India lost five wickets during the run chase.
WATCH – Virat Kohli’s Hilarious Banter With Hardik Pandya Lights Up ODI Series Preparations
This marked the first instance in his career where Kohli didn’t bat despite India losing five wickets in an innings. In previous ODIs, Kohli had batted at number 7, but this time, he was positioned 8th in the order. The match itself showcased a dominant performance by the Indian team. After winning the toss and opting to bowl, the Indian bowlers put on a magnificent show, bringing the hosts down to their knees.
Starting the ODI series on a winning note 👏 👏#TeamIndia | #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/fVbEHRSmAw
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 27, 2023
Windies skipper, Shai Hope, was the highest run-getter for his team with a score of 43 runs. However, the relentless attack led by Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja caused havoc, and the West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 114 runs in the first innings.
Kuldeep Yadav picked up four wickets, while Jadeja claimed three, and Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, and debutant Mukesh Kumar each struck once. Chasing the low total, India lost five wickets but managed to score 118, clinching the game by five wickets and asserting their dominance in the white-ball series.
ALSO READ: Kuldeep Yadav Stars Against West Indies As Yuzvendra Chahal Awaits Turn In The Spotlight
With the first victory under their belt, the Indian team is eager to build on the momentum and deliver similar performances in the upcoming matches to secure the ODI series as well. The West Indies, on the other hand, will have to regroup and put up a stronger fight to avoid falling behind in the series.
