Overview: Day 3 Brings a Resilient West Indies Response
In a keenly watched twist to the IND vs WI 2nd Test, Day 3 delivered a resilient counterpunch from the West Indies. After a jittery start to the innings, they steadied the ship with a patient display from Shai Hope and John Campbell. The duo stitched a 138-run alliance that became the backbone of WI’s push to erase the deficit and set up a compelling finish as the day ended 173/2, still 97 runs behind India.
Opening Woes and a Quick Rebound
The morning began with a setback as Tagenarine Chanderpaul fell early, leaving West Indies at 17 on the board. The loss of an opener can often derail plans, but Alick Athanaze and John Campbell steadied the innings in a measured response. They added 18 runs before Athanaze fell to a quality delivery, handing Shai Hope a chance to join Campbell at the crease and shift the momentum.
Hope and Campbell: A Pair With Purpose
Hope and Campbell showed the resolve this tour has needed. Campbell, in particular, looked to carry forward the momentum and rotate the strike, while Hope embraced a more aggressive approach whenever the opportunity arose. The partnership blossomed into a dominant 138-run stand as India’s bowling unit tried to find the edge, including the spell from Jasprit Bumrah. Yet the two west Indian batters displayed patience, resilience, and careful shot selection, blunting the best efforts of the Indian bowlers.
Hope’s Half-Century Milestone
Shai Hope reached a Test half-century, his timing suggesting a return to form as he aligned with Campbell to build a substantial platform. He balanced attacking intent with solid defense, guiding the innings through periods of pressure and keeping the scoreboard moving.
Campbell on the Cusp of a Century
John Campbell’s innings was inching toward a big score. He played with calm tempo, showing the technical aptitude that has made him a key figure for the West Indies in this series. The 138-run alliance was his reward for game awareness and his ability to anchor an innings when the pressure was high.
India’s Response: Pressure Remains, But WI Hold the Nerve
India will take some positives from their progress through the WI middle order, but the on-field narrative on Day 3 was about the resolute batting from Hope and Campbell. Bumrah’s introduction did not derail the partnership, illustrating the patience and temperament they displayed against a high-caliber attack. The weathered Indian bowlers will still feel the bite of a determined pair, and technically sound batting often becomes the difference in this phase of a Test match.
What This Means for the Match
Ending Day 3 at 173/2, West Indies have regained control of the match from where they started the day. They trail by 97 runs with a promising platform in place. The stage is set for a potential follow-on or a substantial chase, depending on how India plans to counter a now settled West Indies batting lineup. The key for WI will be to preserve wickets overnight and push beyond the 250-mark if possible, while India will be keen to press home their advantage with an early breakthrough on Day 4.
Looking Ahead
Day 4 will be critical for both teams. For West Indies, the plan will be to extend the partnership, rotate the strike, and test the Indian bowlers under fresh conditions. For India, creating a new set of pressure moments—especially during the powerplays—could tilt momentum back in their favour. Fans can expect another tight, strategic contest as the IND vs WI 2nd Test moves toward its conclusion, with Hope and Campbell’s partnership at the heart ofWI’s hopes for a spirited fightback.
