Ahmedabad: A brilliant spell of fast bowling by Prasidh Krishna helped India defend a moderate score and clinch the ODI series against the West Indies on Wednesday night.
The 25-year-old pacer, who came on as first-change bowler after India posted 237 for 9 in 50 overs in the second ODI, was not only difficult to score off but also provided crucial early breakthroughs. Krishna took three of the first four West Indian wickets as the visitors slumped to 76 for 5.
Quite aptly, Krishna wrapped up India’s 44-run victory by bagging the final wicket of Kemar Roach. Krishna finished with dream figures of 9-3-12-4. Shamarh Brooks top-scored with 44 as the West Indies were bowled out for 193 in 46 overs.
Earlier, India made a wobbly start to find themselves at 43 for 3 with skipper Rohit Sharma (1), makeshift opener Rishabh Pant (18) and Virat Kohli (18) back in the pavilion.
KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav steadied the innings with a fine 91-run partnership. They looked to be on course for big knocks before Rahul was run out for 49 while Suryakumar fell for 64. Cameos from Deepak Hooda (29 off 25 balls) and Washington Sundar took India to what looked like a below-par total.
However, it turned out to be enough as Krishna was well supported by fellow-pacers Mohammad Siraj and Shardul Thakur and leggie Yuzvendra Chahal.
Scores: India 237/9 in 50 overs. West Indies 193 in 46 overs.
Result: India won by 44 runs.
