Thiruvananthapuram: India opened their three-match ODI series against the West Indies with a commanding eight-wicket victory, powered by centuries from Virat Kohli and captain Shubman Gill at the Sports Hub International Cricket Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

West Indies posted 295/7 in 50 overs after being sent in to bat. India then chased down the target in only 41.4 overs, finishing on 300/2.

West Indies Make Strong Start

West Indies began confidently, with Justin Greaves and John Campbell putting together a 135-run opening partnership.

Campbell scored 62 from 60 balls, while Greaves continued after his partner’s dismissal and reached his maiden ODI century. He finished with 101 from 104 deliveries.

Amir Jangoo provided late acceleration with an unbeaten 58, helping West Indies reach 295/7 from their allotted 50 overs.

Kuldeep Yadav Changes the Momentum

India’s response with the ball was led by Kuldeep Yadav, who returned to the ODI side with an impressive four-wicket performance.

The left-arm wrist-spinner finished with 4/40 from 10 overs, breaking important partnerships and preventing West Indies from converting their strong start into a total beyond 300.

Prasidh Krishna claimed two wickets, while Nitish Kumar Reddy took one. Kuldeep was subsequently named Player of the Match.

Gill and Kohli Take Control

India’s chase started positively, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting on 74 for the opening wicket.

After Rohit was dismissed for 32, Gill was joined by Kohli. The pair then produced a decisive 151-run second-wicket partnership.

Gill completed his century before being dismissed for 110 from 108 balls, while Kohli remained at the crease until the end.

Kohli Reaches 15,000 ODI Runs

Kohli’s unbeaten 139 from 88 balls was the highlight of the chase. His innings contained 10 fours and nine sixes.

During the innings, Kohli also became only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to reach 15,000 ODI runs.

The century was Kohli’s 55th in ODI cricket, adding another milestone to an already extensive international record.

India Finish the Chase Comfortably

After Gill’s departure, Ruturaj Gaikwad joined Kohli and remained unbeaten on 13.

Kohli sealed the match with a six as India reached 300/2 in 41.4 overs, winning with 50 balls remaining.

The result gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Second ODI in Guwahati

The second ODI is scheduled for September 30 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

India will enter the match with an opportunity to take an unassailable series lead, while West Indies will look to level the series.