Cricket / Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma Smash Centuries as India Race Towards 406-Run Chase in Guwahati

Guwahati, Sep 30: Captain Shubman Gill and veteran opener Rohit Sharma produced a breathtaking batting display as India stormed to 232 without loss in just 24 overs while chasing a daunting target of 406 against West Indies in the second ODI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium here on Wednesday.

After West Indies piled up a mammoth 405/7 riding on centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope and Amir Jangoo, India responded in emphatic fashion, with Gill and Rohit dismantling the visitors' bowling attack from the outset.

Gill scripts record

Gill brought up his century off just 62 balls, becoming the fastest Indian captain to score an ODI hundred. The Indian skipper mixed elegant strokeplay with aggressive intent, keeping India well ahead of the required run rate in what is shaping up to be one of the highest successful run chases in ODI history.

The right-hander's innings further underlined his growing stature as one of India's premier white-ball batters.

Rohit reaches major milestone

At the other end, Rohit Sharma matched his captain's brilliance with a century of his own. In the process, the Indian opener became only the third Indian batter to complete 12,000 runs in One-Day Internationals, joining an elite list of Indian cricketing greats.

Rohit's fluent strokeplay ensured that India maintained relentless pressure on the West Indies bowlers throughout the innings.
Also Read: 2nd ODI: Triple Tons Power West Indies to 405/7, India Face Record Chase in Guwahati

Record chase on cards

India required 406 runs at the start of their innings after West Indies registered their highest-ever ODI total. However, the opening pair transformed the contest into a one-sided affair, scoring at nearly 10 runs an over and leaving the visitors searching for breakthroughs.

With both centurions still at the crease and India yet to lose a wicket, the hosts appeared firmly on course for a memorable victory and an unassailable lead in the three-match series.

The partnership has not only kept India's hopes alive but has also turned a daunting chase into a realistic target, setting up an exciting finish in Guwahati.