Cricket / India Set West Indies a Stiff 250-Run Target in Second T20I

Ranchi, Oct. 9: Star opener Sanju Samson struck a blistering 82 as India posted a massive 249 for five against West Indies in the second T20 International at the JSCA International Stadium Complex here on Friday, setting the visitors a daunting target of 250 runs.

Asked to bat after West Indies won the toss and opted to field, India made full use of the batting-friendly conditions, with the top and middle order contributing to a commanding total.

Samson anchored the innings with an aggressive yet controlled knock, finding boundaries regularly and ensuring the scoring rate never dipped. His innings laid the foundation for India's highest total of the series so far.

Captain Shreyas Iyer continued his impressive form, scoring a brisk 40 off 18 deliveries. His innings provided momentum during the middle overs and kept the pressure firmly on the West Indies bowlers.

Tilak Varma then added the finishing touches with a sparkling 44 off just 18 balls. The left-hander's aggressive strokeplay in the closing stages propelled India close to the 250-run mark and left the visitors with a formidable chase.

India's batting effort followed its dominant display in the opening T20I at Lucknow, where the hosts secured an eight-wicket victory to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Iyer had led the charge in that match with an unbeaten 102 off 43 balls, guiding India to the target with 32 deliveries to spare.
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For West Indies, Roston Chase was the most successful bowler, claiming three wickets despite the challenging conditions. Shamar Springer accounted for the remaining two wickets, but the visitors struggled to stem the flow of runs as India's batters dictated terms throughout the innings.

With a target of 250, West Indies face a formidable challenge if they are to level the series. India, meanwhile, will look to capitalise on its strong position and seal the contest with another comprehensive performance.