When India cricket team smashed the West Indies by an innings and 140 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium on October 4, 2025, the cricket world took a collective breath. The result not only handed India a 1‑0 lead in the five‑day series but also underscored the firepower that propelled them to the Asia Cup 2025 title earlier this year. Fans across India and the Caribbean were glued to their screens, eager to see whether the Caribbean side could weather the storm of a disciplined Indian attack.
Match Overview: Day 3 Drama
The first Test, part of the India‑West Indies Test seriesAhmedabad, was scheduled from October 2‑6, with each day’s play kicking off at 9:30 am IST. After a brisk toss at 9:00 am on day 1, India elected to bat first.
A solid opening partnership set the tone, but the real breakthrough came when Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah ripped through the Caribbean batting line‑up. Siraj’s searing outswing and Bumrah’s uncanny death‑overs accuracy accounted for seven of the ten wickets that fell in the first innings.
The West Indies could muster only 162 runs, with Justin Greaves top‑scoring at a modest 32. India’s reply was anchored by KL Rahul, who stayed unbeaten on 53, while Shubman Gill contributed a gritty 18 not out. At a precarious 121/2, India seemed in trouble, but a swift partnership pushed the total to a commanding 404, leaving the visitors staring at a 242‑run deficit.
When the West Indies began their second innings, the odds of avoiding an innings defeat were slim. The target of 286 appeared out of reach, and true to expectations, the Caribbean side collapsed well short, cementing the innings‑and‑140‑run margin.
Key Performances That Turned the Tide
- KL Rahul – 53* (not out); steadying the innings after early wickets fell.
- Mohammed Siraj – 4/45; his aggressive swing unsettled the West Indian top order.
- Jasprit Bumrah – 3/58; delivered the crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs.
- Justin Greaves – 32; lone spark for the visitors but insufficient to change the game.
- Shubman Gill – 18*; quick‑fire cameo that added valuable runs.
Speaking after the match, captain Rohit Sharma said, “Our bowlers executed the plan perfectly, and the batting unit showed resilience when needed. We’ll look to build on this momentum for the rest of the series.”
How to Watch – Streaming Options and Free Trials
Fans who missed the live action could still catch up through several streaming platforms offering comprehensive commentary without infringing on broadcast rights. The most popular choice was Prime Video’s Willow TV, which rolled out a 7‑day free trial for new users. The service delivered ball‑by‑ball Hindi and English commentary, plus post‑match analysis.
Other outlets that kept the cricket fever alive included:
- NDTV Sports – live text updates and expert panels.
- Hindustan Times – detailed scorecards and video highlights.
- Times of India – interactive minute‑by‑minute commentary.
All these platforms adhered to copyright rules, focusing on analysis rather than broadcasting live footage. Viewers could also tune into select YouTube channels that offered free ball‑by‑ball text streams in both Hindi and English.
Reactions from the Cricket Community
On social media, the Indian fan base erupted with memes celebrating the dominant display. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar lauded the bowlers, noting, “Siraj and Bumrah made the West Indian batsmen look uncomfortable the entire time.”
Meanwhile, West Indies coach Stuart Law admitted the side needed to regroup, “We have to look at our technique against high‑pace swing and adjust our game plan. The conditions here favoured the Indian seamers.”
Implications for the Rest of the Series
With a 1‑0 lead, India now controls the narrative. The series has three matches left, all slated for venues that favour spin‑friendly pitches – a potential boon for India’s world‑class spin quartet of Ravindra Jadeja and Yuzvendra Chahal. If they can sustain the pressure, the West Indies will face an uphill battle to avoid a 4‑0 whitewash.
Analysts also point out that the psychological edge gained from such a comprehensive win could influence batting confidence for both sides. The Caribbean side will need to overhaul its opening partnerships if they hope to post competitive totals in the upcoming Tests.
Background: India‑West Indies Test History
The two nations have a storied past, with India’s first Test win on West Indian soil dating back to 1974. Since then, the balance has tilted multiple times, but the last three series in India have all ended in Indian victories. The 2025 series was particularly anticipated after India’s triumph in the Asia Cup, where they defeated Pakistan in a nail‑biting final.
Historically, West Indies have struggled on sub‑continental pitches, where the heat and slow turn challenge their traditionally aggressive batting style. The current result reinforces that trend, echoing the 2018 series where India won 2‑0.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this result affect West Indies' chances in the series?
The innings defeat puts West Indies under immense pressure. They now need to win the remaining three Tests to avoid a series loss, and they must adapt quickly to Indian spin‑friendly tracks, which historically have been their Achilles’ heel.
Where can viewers in India watch future matches live?
Prime Video’s Willow TV remains the official streaming partner, offering both Hindi and English commentary. NDTV Sports, Hindustan Times, and Times of India also provide live text updates and post‑match highlights without a subscription.
What were the key factors behind India’s dominant performance?
A blend of disciplined seam bowling from Siraj and Bumrah, coupled with a resilient middle order led by KL Rahul, allowed India to post a massive total. The home pitch’s slight bounce also suited their fast bowlers, while the West Indies struggled to adjust.
When is the next Test scheduled and where?
The second Test kicks off on October 12, 2025, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. That venue is known for its turning surface, which should favour India's spinners.
What did teammates say about the team’s morale after the win?
All-rounder Hardik Pandya remarked, “We fed off each other’s energy, and the crowd made it special. It’s a confidence boost for the whole squad.”
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