Centurion Prithvi Shaw, who batted like one not appearing in his maiden Test, Thursday said he was also well prepared to play his first international game against a better attack in testing English conditions.

Teenage sensation Shaw was named in India's squad for the final two Tests in England but did not get to make his debut in a series which the visitors lost 1-4.

He made a dream debut against the West Indies in the series opener, scoring a sublime 134 and, at 18 years and 329 days, becoming the youngestIndian to reach three figures in his maiden appearance.

"It was captain and coach's decision (of when to give me a game). I was ready in England as well but finally got the opportunity here," said the soft-spoken youngster after stumps on day one.

"But it I was a great experience in England. They made feel really comfortable. Virat bhai told me there is no senior or junior in the team. It was nice sharing the dressing room with players who have played international cricket for more than five years. Everyone is a friend now."

He was expectedly nervous before the game but getting to spend time with his senior teammates during the England series helped him approach his debut like "any other game".

His first runs came off his typical back-foot punch and he never looked back from there, playing a top-quality innings comprising 19 fours.

"I was nervous at the start but settled down after I timed a few nicely. After that, I didn't feel the pressure that I felt at the start of the innings. I like to dominate bowlers and that is what I was trying to do, waiting for the loose balls," he said.

Having scored a hundred on Ranji and Duleep Trophy debut, Shaw did the same at the highest level. When asked, Shaw was modest about rising to the occasion timing and again.

"I don't know how I manage but whenever go in the middle, I try to play to the merit of the ball and even in this game I went in with the same mindset. I did not try anything new thinking it is my first Test. Played the same way I have played India A and domestic cricket.

"Having said that, there is a lot of difference if you compare international cricket with the U-19 and domestic cricket. They come with a lot of strategies in international cricket. You face bowlers with a lot more pace. Sometimes you face serious pace in domestic cricket but here is a lot more variety and experience," said Shaw who looked comfortable against Shanon Gabriel even though he was touching 150kph.

The year could not have turned out better for Shaw, who led India to the U-19 World Cup title in New Zealand, made his IPL debut before finally getting his big break on Thursday. He dedicated the hundred to his father, who raised him as a single parent after his mother passed way when he was just four.

"I never thought of making my India debut right after the U-19 win. I took it match by match. It finally happened today. I dedicate this innings to my father.

He has made a lot of sacrifice for me. I cannot even describe it now.

"I was thinking about my dad, as he has sacrificed a lot for me. Whenever I scored a hundred I thought of him and this is my first Test hundred, it's all for him."

When asked what his father said to him before the game, Shaw added: "He doesn't know that much about cricket. He just said 'go and enjoy your debut'. Play like another game."&nbsp;

Centurion Prithvi Shaw, who batted like one not appearing in his maiden Test, Thursday said he was also well prepared to play his first international game against a better attack in testing English conditions.

Centurion Prithvi Shaw, who batted like one not appearing in his maiden Test, Thursday said he was also well prepared to play his first international game against a better attack in testing English conditions. Teenage sensation Shaw was named in India's squad for the final two Tests in England but did not get to make his debut in a series which the visitors lost 1-4. He made a dream debut against the West Indies in the series opener, scoring a sublime 134 and, at 18 years and 329 days, becoming the youngestIndian to reach three figures in his maiden appearance. "It was captain and coach's decision (of when to give me a game). I was ready in England as well but finally got the opportunity here," said the soft-spoken youngster after stumps on day one. "But it I was a great experience in England. They made feel really comfortable. Virat bhai told me there is no senior or junior in the team. It was nice sharing the dressing room with players who have played international cricket for more than five years. Everyone is a friend now." He was expectedly nervous before the game but getting to spend time with his senior teammates during the England series helped him approach his debut like "any other game". His first runs came off his typical back-foot punch and he never looked back from there, playing a top-quality innings comprising 19 fours. "I was nervous at the start but settled down after I timed a few nicely. After that, I didn't feel the pressure that I felt at the start of the innings. I like to dominate bowlers and that is what I was trying to do, waiting for the loose balls," he said. Having scored a hundred on Ranji and Duleep Trophy debut, Shaw did the same at the highest level. When asked, Shaw was modest about rising to the occasion timing and again. "I don't know how I manage but whenever go in the middle, I try to play to the merit of the ball and even in this game I went in with the same mindset. I did not try anything new thinking it is my first Test. Played the same way I have played India A and domestic cricket. "Having said that, there is a lot of difference if you compare international cricket with the U-19 and domestic cricket. They come with a lot of strategies in international cricket. You face bowlers with a lot more pace. Sometimes you face serious pace in domestic cricket but here is a lot more variety and experience," said Shaw who looked comfortable against Shanon Gabriel even though he was touching 150kph. The year could not have turned out better for Shaw, who led India to the U-19 World Cup title in New Zealand, made his IPL debut before finally getting his big break on Thursday. He dedicated the hundred to his father, who raised him as a single parent after his mother passed way when he was just four. "I never thought of making my India debut right after the U-19 win. I took it match by match. It finally happened today. I dedicate this innings to my father. He has made a lot of sacrifice for me. I cannot even describe it now. "I was thinking about my dad, as he has sacrificed a lot for me. Whenever I scored a hundred I thought of him and this is my first Test hundred, it's all for him." When asked what his father said to him before the game, Shaw added: "He doesn't know that much about cricket. He just said 'go and enjoy your debut'. Play like another game."

I was ready for my debut even in England: Prithvi Shaw

Teenager&nbsp;Prithvi&nbsp;Shaw&nbsp;became the youngest Indian to score a century on Test debut as the hosts took opening day honours in the first match against the West Indies on Thursday.

Shaw, 18, also became India's second-youngest century maker after Sachin Tendulkar as he blasted his way to a century in 99 deliveries in Rajkot.

India were 364 for four at stumps after electing to bat first in Rajkot. Skipper Virat Kohli, on 72, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, on 17, were batting at close of play.

But the day belonged to&nbsp;Shaw, a diminutive right-handed opener and Indian Premier League star for the Delhi Daredevils, as he and Cheteshwar Pujara put on a 206-run second wicket partnership.

He led India's fightback after they lost opener Lokesh Rahul for nought in the very first over off Shannon Gabriel.

Shaw&nbsp;was finally caught and bowled by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for 134 in the last over before tea. His knock came in 154 balls with 19 boundaries.

The now-retired Tendulkar, India's most successful batsman, was aged 17 when he scored 119 not out against England in 1990, but that was in his ninth Test match.

Shaw&nbsp;reached the landmark with two runs off paceman Keemo Paul, punching his fist in the air as the home crowd gave him a standing ovation.

Shaw&nbsp;is the seventh-youngest international batsman to score his first Test century. He is also the third batsman after Shikhar Dhawan (85 balls) and Dwayne Smith (93) to hit his debut ton in under 100 balls.

Pujara also played an uncharacteristically quick knock as he brought up fifty off 67 deliveries, but missed out on his hundred after being caught behind off debutant paceman Sherman Lewis.

Kraigg Brathwaite, standing in as captain after Jason Holder suffered a last-minute ankle injury, juggled his bowlers but the absence of the experienced Kemar Roach and Holder was painfully evident.

Roach is back in Barbados to attend the funeral of his grandmother.

Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, who made 41, took over from&nbsp;

Teenager&nbsp;Prithvi&nbsp;Shaw&nbsp;became the youngest Indian to score a century on Test debut as the hosts took opening day honours in the first match against the West Indies on Thursday.

Shaw, 18, also became India's second-youngest century maker after Sachin Tendulkar as he blasted his way to a century in 99 deliveries in Rajkot.

India were 364 for four at stumps after electing to bat first in Rajkot. Skipper Virat Kohli, on 72, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, on 17, were batting at close of play.

But the day belonged to&nbsp;Shaw, a diminutive right-handed opener and Indian Premier League star for the Delhi Daredevils, as he and Cheteshwar Pujara put on a 206-run second wicket partnership.

He led India's fightback after they lost opener Lokesh Rahul for nought in the very first over off Shannon Gabriel.

Shaw&nbsp;was finally caught and bowled by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for 134 in the last over before tea. His knock came in 154 balls with 19 boundaries.

The now-retired Tendulkar, India's most successful batsman, was aged 17 when he scored 119 not out against England in 1990, but that was in his ninth Test match.

Shaw&nbsp;reached the landmark with two runs off paceman Keemo Paul, punching his fist in the air as the home crowd gave him a standing ovation.

Shaw&nbsp;is the seventh-youngest international batsman to score his first Test century. He is also the third batsman after Shikhar Dhawan (85 balls) and Dwayne Smith (93) to hit his debut ton in under 100 balls.

Pujara also played an uncharacteristically quick knock as he brought up fifty off 67 deliveries, but missed out on his hundred after being caught behind off debutant paceman Sherman Lewis.

Kraigg Brathwaite, standing in as captain after Jason Holder suffered a last-minute ankle injury, juggled his bowlers but the absence of the experienced Kemar Roach and Holder was painfully evident.

Roach is back in Barbados to attend the funeral of his grandmother.

Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, who made 41, took over from&nbsp;Shaw&nbsp;with a patient 105-run partnership despite West Indies bowlers keeping a tidy line and length to check the flow of runs in the final session of play.

India, who had raced to 232-3 at tea, managed another 132 runs in 38 overs of the evening session with Kohli and Rahane batting cautiously.

Kohli, who is the world's number one Test batsman, got to his half-century against Bishoo and was getting dangerous with each passing ball.

Indian vice-captain Rahane though lost his cool against off-spinner Roston Chase to get caught behind in the final few overs of the day.

&nbsp;with a patient 105-run partnership despite West Indies bowlers keeping a tidy line and length to check the flow of runs in the final session of play.

India, who had raced to 232-3 at tea, managed another 132 runs in 38 overs of the evening session with Kohli and Rahane batting cautiously.

Kohli, who is the world's number one Test batsman, got to his half-century against Bishoo and was getting dangerous with each passing ball.

Indian vice-captain Rahane though lost his cool against off-spinner Roston Chase to get caught behind in the final few overs of the day.

Teenager Prithvi Shaw became the youngest Indian to score a century on Test debut as the hosts took opening day honours in the first match against the West Indies on Thursday.

Teenager Prithvi Shaw became the youngest Indian to score a century on Test debut as the hosts took opening day honours in the first match against the West Indies on Thursday. Shaw, 18, also became India's second-youngest century maker after Sachin Tendulkar as he blasted his way to a century in 99 deliveries in Rajkot. India were 364 for four at stumps after electing to bat first in Rajkot. Skipper Virat Kohli, on 72, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, on 17, were batting at close of play. But the day belonged to Shaw, a diminutive right-handed opener and Indian Premier League star for the Delhi Daredevils, as he and Cheteshwar Pujara put on a 206-run second wicket partnership. He led India's fightback after they lost opener Lokesh Rahul for nought in the very first over off Shannon Gabriel. Shaw was finally caught and bowled by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for 134 in the last over before tea. His knock came in 154 balls with 19 boundaries. The now-retired Tendulkar, India's most successful batsman, was aged 17 when he scored 119 not out against England in 1990, but that was in his ninth Test match. Shaw reached the landmark with two runs off paceman Keemo Paul, punching his fist in the air as the home crowd gave him a standing ovation. Shaw is the seventh-youngest international batsman to score his first Test century. He is also the third batsman after Shikhar Dhawan (85 balls) and Dwayne Smith (93) to hit his debut ton in under 100 balls. Pujara also played an uncharacteristically quick knock as he brought up fifty off 67 deliveries, but missed out on his hundred after being caught behind off debutant paceman Sherman Lewis. Kraigg Brathwaite, standing in as captain after Jason Holder suffered a last-minute ankle injury, juggled his bowlers but the absence of the experienced Kemar Roach and Holder was painfully evident. Roach is back in Barbados to attend the funeral of his grandmother. Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, who made 41, took over from Teenager Prithvi Shaw became the youngest Indian to score a century on Test debut as the hosts took opening day honours in the first match against the West Indies on Thursday. Shaw, 18, also became India's second-youngest century maker after Sachin Tendulkar as he blasted his way to a century in 99 deliveries in Rajkot. India were 364 for four at stumps after electing to bat first in Rajkot. Skipper Virat Kohli, on 72, and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, on 17, were batting at close of play. But the day belonged to Shaw, a diminutive right-handed opener and Indian Premier League star for the Delhi Daredevils, as he and Cheteshwar Pujara put on a 206-run second wicket partnership. He led India's fightback after they lost opener Lokesh Rahul for nought in the very first over off Shannon Gabriel. Shaw was finally caught and bowled by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for 134 in the last over before tea. His knock came in 154 balls with 19 boundaries. The now-retired Tendulkar, India's most successful batsman, was aged 17 when he scored 119 not out against England in 1990, but that was in his ninth Test match. Shaw reached the landmark with two runs off paceman Keemo Paul, punching his fist in the air as the home crowd gave him a standing ovation. Shaw is the seventh-youngest international batsman to score his first Test century. He is also the third batsman after Shikhar Dhawan (85 balls) and Dwayne Smith (93) to hit his debut ton in under 100 balls. Pujara also played an uncharacteristically quick knock as he brought up fifty off 67 deliveries, but missed out on his hundred after being caught behind off debutant paceman Sherman Lewis. Kraigg Brathwaite, standing in as captain after Jason Holder suffered a last-minute ankle injury, juggled his bowlers but the absence of the experienced Kemar Roach and Holder was painfully evident. Roach is back in Barbados to attend the funeral of his grandmother. Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, who made 41, took over from Shaw with a patient 105-run partnership despite West Indies bowlers keeping a tidy line and length to check the flow of runs in the final session of play. India, who had raced to 232-3 at tea, managed another 132 runs in 38 overs of the evening session with Kohli and Rahane batting cautiously. Kohli, who is the world's number one Test batsman, got to his half-century against Bishoo and was getting dangerous with each passing ball. Indian vice-captain Rahane though lost his cool against off-spinner Roston Chase to get caught behind in the final few overs of the day. with a patient 105-run partnership despite West Indies bowlers keeping a tidy line and length to check the flow of runs in the final session of play. India, who had raced to 232-3 at tea, managed another 132 runs in 38 overs of the evening session with Kohli and Rahane batting cautiously. Kohli, who is the world's number one Test batsman, got to his half-century against Bishoo and was getting dangerous with each passing ball. Indian vice-captain Rahane though lost his cool against off-spinner Roston Chase to get caught behind in the final few overs of the day.

1st Test: Prithvi Shaw's debut ton propels India 364/4 at stumps

Prithvi Shaw went on to slam a century in his debut game on Thursday against West Indies at Rajkot. However, the young sensation departed after giving a simple catch in the hands of Devendra Bishoo.

The right-handed batsman made 134 runs, which included 19 boundaries. He took 99 balls to reach the three-digit mark on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite losing their first wicket in the very first over, India managed to get back on the track and put a score of 133 runs for the loss of one wicket at lunch.

The credit goes to debutant Prithvi Shaw and one-down Cheteshwar Pujara, who slammed a half-century each, to put India in the controlling situation in Rajkot.&nbsp;

Shaw, on his playing his debut game, took 56 balls to reach his first-half-century. His shots selection and timing didn't reflect him as a debutant but a player who was waiting for a right platform to display his cricketing prowess.

Supported by veteran Pujara, who also slammed a gritty half-century, India managed to recover from the early loss.

Both Shaw and Pujara, are well settled on the crease and are playing at 75 and 56 respectively.

KL Rahul, on the other hand, lost his wicket in the first over. He was sent back to the pavilion for a duck after being lbw by Shannon Gabriel.

Prithvi, who earned a maiden Indian call-up midway into the England tour but did not get a game, has been preferred over Mayank Agarwal in the playing XI for the series opener against West Indies.

In the domestic circuit, Prithvi showed maturity beyond years, notching up fine hundreds on his Ranji and Duleep Trophy debuts, a few years after bursting onto the Mumbai scene with a bang. Shaw also led India to U-19 World Cup triumph.

The young Mumbai batsman was part of the Indian squad for the last two Test matches against England but didn't get an opportunity as the team management decided to persist with Shikhar Dhawan and K L Rahul. 
&nbsp;

Prithvi Shaw went on to slam a century in his debut game on Thursday against West Indies at Rajkot. However, the young sensation departed after giving a simple catch in the hands of Devendra Bishoo.

Prithvi Shaw went on to slam a century in his debut game on Thursday against West Indies at Rajkot. However, the young sensation departed after giving a simple catch in the hands of Devendra Bishoo. The right-handed batsman made 134 runs, which included 19 boundaries. He took 99 balls to reach the three-digit mark on Thursday. Despite losing their first wicket in the very first over, India managed to get back on the track and put a score of 133 runs for the loss of one wicket at lunch. The credit goes to debutant Prithvi Shaw and one-down Cheteshwar Pujara, who slammed a half-century each, to put India in the controlling situation in Rajkot. Shaw, on his playing his debut game, took 56 balls to reach his first-half-century. His shots selection and timing didn't reflect him as a debutant but a player who was waiting for a right platform to display his cricketing prowess. Supported by veteran Pujara, who also slammed a gritty half-century, India managed to recover from the early loss. Both Shaw and Pujara, are well settled on the crease and are playing at 75 and 56 respectively. KL Rahul, on the other hand, lost his wicket in the first over. He was sent back to the pavilion for a duck after being lbw by Shannon Gabriel. Prithvi, who earned a maiden Indian call-up midway into the England tour but did not get a game, has been preferred over Mayank Agarwal in the playing XI for the series opener against West Indies. In the domestic circuit, Prithvi showed maturity beyond years, notching up fine hundreds on his Ranji and Duleep Trophy debuts, a few years after bursting onto the Mumbai scene with a bang. Shaw also led India to U-19 World Cup triumph. The young Mumbai batsman was part of the Indian squad for the last two Test matches against England but didn't get an opportunity as the team management decided to persist with Shikhar Dhawan and K L Rahul.

1st Test: Debutant Shaw falls for 134, India 232/3 at tea

18-year-old Prithvi Shaw on Thursday became the youngest Indian cricketer to score a century on debut after he slammed a 99-ball ton on Day 1 of the first Test match against West Indies in Rajkot.

Shaw, who played at a strike rate of 97.14 slammed 15 boundaries to reach the milestone.&nbsp;

In the process, he became the fourth youngest batsman overall to score a century on debut after Mohammad Ashraful, Hamilton Masakadza and Saleem Malik.

Shaw announced his arrival with a historic 546 for Rizvi Springfield against St Francis D’Assisi in the prestigious Harris Shield as he became the became the first schoolboy cricketer to hit a 500 plus score in an official inter-school match.

He also became the first Indian cricketer to score a century on debut in the Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy and in Test matches.&nbsp;

Sachin Tendulkar also scored a century on his Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy debut, but the legendary batsman had to wait for 13 matches to score his first Test century.

Shaw became the second-youngest Indian test cricketer after Vijay Mehra, who made his debut at 17 years against New Zealand in 1955.&nbsp;

18-year-old Prithvi Shaw on Thursday became the youngest Indian cricketer to score a century on debut after he slammed a 99-ball ton on Day 1 of the first Test match against West Indies in Rajkot.

18-year-old Prithvi Shaw on Thursday became the youngest Indian cricketer to score a century on debut after he slammed a 99-ball ton on Day 1 of the first Test match against West Indies in Rajkot. Shaw, who played at a strike rate of 97.14 slammed 15 boundaries to reach the milestone. In the process, he became the fourth youngest batsman overall to score a century on debut after Mohammad Ashraful, Hamilton Masakadza and Saleem Malik. Shaw announced his arrival with a historic 546 for Rizvi Springfield against St Francis D’Assisi in the prestigious Harris Shield as he became the became the first schoolboy cricketer to hit a 500 plus score in an official inter-school match. He also became the first Indian cricketer to score a century on debut in the Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy and in Test matches. Sachin Tendulkar also scored a century on his Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy debut, but the legendary batsman had to wait for 13 matches to score his first Test century. Shaw became the second-youngest Indian test cricketer after Vijay Mehra, who made his debut at 17 years against New Zealand in 1955.

India vs West Indies: 18-year-old Shaw shatters records, hits century on Test debut 

Teenage prodigy Prithvi Shaw is set to open alongside KL Rahul in the first Test against the West Indies after India on Wednesday started the practice of naming their final 12 before the start of every game.

The move of naming the final 12 ahead of the game has more or less settled the debate on the playing eleven.&nbsp;

Shaw, who earned a maiden call-up midway into the England tour but did not get a game, has been preferred over Mayank Agarwal for the series opener.

Agarwal had broken into the team after scoring tons of runs in domestic cricket and at India A level. What is also clear now is that India will go in with five specialist bowlers and the most likely 12th man will be Shardul Thakur.

Three specialist spinners -- Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav -- have been picked and the pace pairing will be of Mohammad Shami and Umesh Yadav.&nbsp;

Hanuma Vihari, who had a made gritty 56 on debut at The Oval against England, has been dropped.

Wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant will bat at six while Jadeja will be expected to make vital lower-order contributions in the absence of injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

The West Indies series presents a good opportunity for Shaw to make his case for the upcoming Australia tour as pointed out by captain Virat Kohli, who said the top-order is the only area where experimentation is needed.

It will be a dream come true for Shaw when he walks out to bat here. The 18-year-old's India debut will hardly be a surprise to those who felt the supremely talented batsman was destined to play for the country ever since he started scoring a bagful of runs in school cricket in Mumbai.&nbsp;

And when Shaw led the India U-19 to the Word Cup title in New Zealand earlier this year, it was only a matter of time before he graduated to the highest level.

Another strong indicator of his rare talent is his first-class record. In 14 games, he averages 56.72 and has made seven hundreds and five half-centuries including a ton on

Ranji Trophy debut in November 2016. And almost a year later, he became the youngest to reach three figures on Duleep Trophy debut.

There was an intense debate on the opening combination going into the first Test since India had dropped Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan for young blood. The picture on whether Shaw or Agarwal will open alongside Rahul only became clear after Kohli's pre-match press conference here.

Both the uncapped openers had batted in the nets on Tuesday and even on Wednesday morning, the mystery remained as Shaw took gentle throwdowns.

Local hero Cheteshwar Pujara and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane spent the maximum time in the nets.

It all became clear with the announcement of final 12 as India took the cue from the likes of Australia, who name their final eleven before the start of the match.&nbsp;

Teenage prodigy Prithvi Shaw is set to open alongside KL Rahul in the first Test against the West Indies after India on Wednesday started the practice of naming their final 12 before the start of every game.

Teenage prodigy Prithvi Shaw is set to open alongside KL Rahul in the first Test against the West Indies after India on Wednesday started the practice of naming their final 12 before the start of every game. The move of naming the final 12 ahead of the game has more or less settled the debate on the playing eleven. Shaw, who earned a maiden call-up midway into the England tour but did not get a game, has been preferred over Mayank Agarwal for the series opener. Agarwal had broken into the team after scoring tons of runs in domestic cricket and at India A level. What is also clear now is that India will go in with five specialist bowlers and the most likely 12th man will be Shardul Thakur. Three specialist spinners -- Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav -- have been picked and the pace pairing will be of Mohammad Shami and Umesh Yadav. Hanuma Vihari, who had a made gritty 56 on debut at The Oval against England, has been dropped. Wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant will bat at six while Jadeja will be expected to make vital lower-order contributions in the absence of injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya. The West Indies series presents a good opportunity for Shaw to make his case for the upcoming Australia tour as pointed out by captain Virat Kohli, who said the top-order is the only area where experimentation is needed. It will be a dream come true for Shaw when he walks out to bat here. The 18-year-old's India debut will hardly be a surprise to those who felt the supremely talented batsman was destined to play for the country ever since he started scoring a bagful of runs in school cricket in Mumbai. And when Shaw led the India U-19 to the Word Cup title in New Zealand earlier this year, it was only a matter of time before he graduated to the highest level. Another strong indicator of his rare talent is his first-class record. In 14 games, he averages 56.72 and has made seven hundreds and five half-centuries including a ton on Ranji Trophy debut in November 2016. And almost a year later, he became the youngest to reach three figures on Duleep Trophy debut. There was an intense debate on the opening combination going into the first Test since India had dropped Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan for young blood. The picture on whether Shaw or Agarwal will open alongside Rahul only became clear after Kohli's pre-match press conference here. Both the uncapped openers had batted in the nets on Tuesday and even on Wednesday morning, the mystery remained as Shaw took gentle throwdowns. Local hero Cheteshwar Pujara and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane spent the maximum time in the nets. It all became clear with the announcement of final 12 as India took the cue from the likes of Australia, who name their final eleven before the start of the match.

It's Shaw and Rahul: Opening debate settled as India announce final 12 for first time

Visakhapatnam will host the second one-day international between India and the West Indies, the BCCI said Wednesday, after a dispute over distribution of complimentary passes moved the October 24 game out of Indore.

The Holkar Stadium at Indore, which was scheduled to host the match, lost out due to a dispute between the Indian board and the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association over the distribution of complimentary passes.

"The second Paytm ODI to be played between India and Windies will now be held at Visakhapatnam's Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA?VDCA Cricket Stadium," the BCCI said in a press release.

As per the new BCCI constitution, 90 per cent tickets of the total capacity of the stadium must be put on public sale, which effectively leaves 10 per cent of complimentary tickets left with state units.

In this case, the Holkar stadium has the capacity to accommodate 27,000 fans and MPCA was left with 2700 complimentary tickets.

The BCCI also demands its share of free passes for its sponsors and thus the bone of contention.

The clamour for free passes during international games has always been an issue with BCCI affiliated units.

The match will now be held at the picturesque ACA-VDCA (Andhra Cricket Association/Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association) ground, set on the outskirts of the port city amidst scenic hills.

The West Indies and India will play five one-day internationals in the series.&nbsp;

Visakhapatnam will host the second one-day international between India and the West Indies, the BCCI said Wednesday, after a dispute over distribution of complimentary passes moved the October 24 game out of Indore.

Visakhapatnam will host the second one-day international between India and the West Indies, the BCCI said Wednesday, after a dispute over distribution of complimentary passes moved the October 24 game out of Indore. The Holkar Stadium at Indore, which was scheduled to host the match, lost out due to a dispute between the Indian board and the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association over the distribution of complimentary passes. "The second Paytm ODI to be played between India and Windies will now be held at Visakhapatnam's Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA?VDCA Cricket Stadium," the BCCI said in a press release. As per the new BCCI constitution, 90 per cent tickets of the total capacity of the stadium must be put on public sale, which effectively leaves 10 per cent of complimentary tickets left with state units. In this case, the Holkar stadium has the capacity to accommodate 27,000 fans and MPCA was left with 2700 complimentary tickets. The BCCI also demands its share of free passes for its sponsors and thus the bone of contention. The clamour for free passes during international games has always been an issue with BCCI affiliated units. The match will now be held at the picturesque ACA-VDCA (Andhra Cricket Association/Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association) ground, set on the outskirts of the port city amidst scenic hills. The West Indies and India will play five one-day internationals in the series.

 India vs Windies: Indore loses out to Visakhapatnam over 'free passes' row

India captain Virat Kohli Wednesday said top-order batting is the only aspect left to be sorted in the Test team and "enough space" would be given to youngsters such as Prithvi Shaw to showcase their talent confidently.

Kohli said experimentation can only be done in the top-order and has high hopes from the 18-year-old Shaw, who will make his Test debut on Thursday in the opening game against the West Indies here. Shaw is expected to open alongside K L Rahul.

"We have a change at the top of the order. We will give these guys enough space and enough chances to feel comfortable at that position. We want them to be confident of what they are doing," Kohli said in the pre-match press conference.

"The lower-order is all about contribution, there is no change needed there. Rishabh (Pant) is new but Ashwin and Jadeja have performed in so many games at home they just need to replicate it abroad.

"Apart from the top-order getting cemented, I don't think with these Two Test there is a lot we are looking at. Rest of the things are quite settled," he added.&nbsp;

After series losses in South Africa and England, the Indian team management was slammed for making too many changes in the playing eleven but Kohli justified the decisions made.&nbsp;

"...You need your best eleven on the park. In the past, most of the changes have been made in the bowling combination and people have conveniently taken otherwise.

The bowlers that have sat out have never felt they have been hard done by," said Kohli.

"The motive has always been to pick the best eleven and we have hardly tinkered with the batting order barring a couple of guys who have not been in form. We have utilised the conditions to the maximum wherever we have gone," he said referring to the bowlers' good work in South Africa and England.

Kohli said the final XI is always picked based on the conditions that the team is facing.

"We have been able to pick up 20 wickets because of the fact we played people who are suited for the conditions. Batting has not been up to the mark and that is why we have not done well in England.

"No one wants to do something different every game. It is all about what is in front of you and accordingly you pick your best eleven," said the skipper.

Contributions from the lower-order helped England win the series 4-1 as openers from both teams struggled in tough conditions for major part of the five-Test series. While

India's lower-order comprising R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have done well at home, they can do a lot better overseas, according to Kohli.&nbsp;

"Everyone on the outside also knows the areas we need to improve on. If you look at the sides which win Test matches, contribution at the top and contribution of the lower-order are more crucial than the contribution of the middle order.

"Whatever happens in middle order is connected to either what top-order or lower-order does. The reason England were better than us because their lower-order did well. I won't say their top-order did better than us. We realise that," he explained.

Kohli said the lower-order must perform better ahead of the Australia tour next month.

"See in home conditions, we are not bothered by it because we have done really well as far as lower-order contributions are concerned. But definitely, we would like to take the West Indies series as a benchmark we want to set.

"With a couple of new guys coming at the top, they have an opportunity to showcase their skill sets and show why selectors have backed them," he said.

Kohli is back in action after a break. He missed the Asia Cup in Dubai to give his back much-needed rest and is raring to go again.

"I feel rejuvenated again both mentally and physically. I needed the break after the intensity with which the tours of South Africa and England went. People usually talk about workloads but they don't usually understand the concept. They refer to workload as number of games played," he said.&nbsp;

"There is no workload if you make zero in every game. If I bat for six hours that is workload," he added.

Managing the workload of players will be given top priority ahead of the 2019 World Cup, he said.

"I definitely needed a break because of my back. Looking at the World Cup these things are very important to consider, to give players ample rest and opportunity to train well and come back stronger. You don't want them breaking down in crucial times," asserted the skipper.&nbsp;

India captain Virat Kohli Wednesday said top-order batting is the only aspect left to be sorted in the Test team and "enough space" would be given to youngsters such as Prithvi Shaw to showcase their talent confidently.

India captain Virat Kohli Wednesday said top-order batting is the only aspect left to be sorted in the Test team and "enough space" would be given to youngsters such as Prithvi Shaw to showcase their talent confidently. Kohli said experimentation can only be done in the top-order and has high hopes from the 18-year-old Shaw, who will make his Test debut on Thursday in the opening game against the West Indies here. Shaw is expected to open alongside K L Rahul. "We have a change at the top of the order. We will give these guys enough space and enough chances to feel comfortable at that position. We want them to be confident of what they are doing," Kohli said in the pre-match press conference. "The lower-order is all about contribution, there is no change needed there. Rishabh (Pant) is new but Ashwin and Jadeja have performed in so many games at home they just need to replicate it abroad. "Apart from the top-order getting cemented, I don't think with these Two Test there is a lot we are looking at. Rest of the things are quite settled," he added. After series losses in South Africa and England, the Indian team management was slammed for making too many changes in the playing eleven but Kohli justified the decisions made. "...You need your best eleven on the park. In the past, most of the changes have been made in the bowling combination and people have conveniently taken otherwise. The bowlers that have sat out have never felt they have been hard done by," said Kohli. "The motive has always been to pick the best eleven and we have hardly tinkered with the batting order barring a couple of guys who have not been in form. We have utilised the conditions to the maximum wherever we have gone," he said referring to the bowlers' good work in South Africa and England. Kohli said the final XI is always picked based on the conditions that the team is facing. "We have been able to pick up 20 wickets because of the fact we played people who are suited for the conditions. Batting has not been up to the mark and that is why we have not done well in England. "No one wants to do something different every game. It is all about what is in front of you and accordingly you pick your best eleven," said the skipper. Contributions from the lower-order helped England win the series 4-1 as openers from both teams struggled in tough conditions for major part of the five-Test series. While India's lower-order comprising R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have done well at home, they can do a lot better overseas, according to Kohli. "Everyone on the outside also knows the areas we need to improve on. If you look at the sides which win Test matches, contribution at the top and contribution of the lower-order are more crucial than the contribution of the middle order. "Whatever happens in middle order is connected to either what top-order or lower-order does. The reason England were better than us because their lower-order did well. I won't say their top-order did better than us. We realise that," he explained. Kohli said the lower-order must perform better ahead of the Australia tour next month. "See in home conditions, we are not bothered by it because we have done really well as far as lower-order contributions are concerned. But definitely, we would like to take the West Indies series as a benchmark we want to set. "With a couple of new guys coming at the top, they have an opportunity to showcase their skill sets and show why selectors have backed them," he said. Kohli is back in action after a break. He missed the Asia Cup in Dubai to give his back much-needed rest and is raring to go again. "I feel rejuvenated again both mentally and physically. I needed the break after the intensity with which the tours of South Africa and England went. People usually talk about workloads but they don't usually understand the concept. They refer to workload as number of games played," he said. "There is no workload if you make zero in every game. If I bat for six hours that is workload," he added. Managing the workload of players will be given top priority ahead of the 2019 World Cup, he said. "I definitely needed a break because of my back. Looking at the World Cup these things are very important to consider, to give players ample rest and opportunity to train well and come back stronger. You don't want them breaking down in crucial times," asserted the skipper.

Virat Kohli says top-order needs sorting, promises enough space to youngsters

West Indies pacer Kemar Roach is expected to miss the opening Test against India, following the death of his grandmother.&nbsp;

West Indies coach Stuart Law confirmed the news on Tuesday.

There are also reports that he will rejoin the squad midway through the first Test beginning on Thursday.

"Kemar is not back yet. He had a bereavement in the family and will be joining the team midway through the first Test," said coach Stuart Law.

"Kemar Roach is a very experienced fast bowler with great skill. He is one of our leaders. It is a big loss. Having said that, Shannon Gabriel has been outstanding in the last couple of Tests, that too in similar conditions to India."

Roach has played 48 Tests, taking 163 wickets at 28.31.

The coach, however, expressed confidence in the abilities of the pace attack comprising Gabriel (37 Tests), captain Jason Holder (34), Keemo Paul (1) and the uncapped Sherman Lewis, who replaced the injured Alzzarri Joseph.

West Indies pacer Kemar Roach is expected to miss the opening Test against India, following the death of his grandmother. West Indies coach Stuart Law confirmed the news on Tuesday.

West Indies pacer Kemar Roach is expected to miss the opening Test against India, following the death of his grandmother. West Indies coach Stuart Law confirmed the news on Tuesday. There are also reports that he will rejoin the squad midway through the first Test beginning on Thursday. "Kemar is not back yet. He had a bereavement in the family and will be joining the team midway through the first Test," said coach Stuart Law. "Kemar Roach is a very experienced fast bowler with great skill. He is one of our leaders. It is a big loss. Having said that, Shannon Gabriel has been outstanding in the last couple of Tests, that too in similar conditions to India." Roach has played 48 Tests, taking 163 wickets at 28.31. The coach, however, expressed confidence in the abilities of the pace attack comprising Gabriel (37 Tests), captain Jason Holder (34), Keemo Paul (1) and the uncapped Sherman Lewis, who replaced the injured Alzzarri Joseph.

Windies pacer Kemar Roach to miss series opener against India

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies.

The two-match series, starting October 4 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, will see young Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari in the 15-member squad, instead of in-form Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

However, this decision by the Indian selectors did not go well with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Sharma's fans, who took to their Twitter handle to question the think-tanks.&nbsp;

The veteran off-spinner said he just cannot digest Rohit's exclusion from the Indian Test squad.

Fans too were left scratching their heads, with many taking to Twitter to vent their anger.&nbsp;

Sharma, who captained India in the absence of Virat Kohli, finished the Asia Cup 2018 as the second highest run-getter behind only teammate Shikhar Dhawan.

Rohit scored 317 runs in five Asia Cup 2018 matches at an average of 105.67

Rohit last played a Test for India against South Africa in January earlier this year.&nbsp;

The right-hander struggled to get going against the Proteas, scoring a total of 78 runs in four innings at an average of 19.50.

Indian team for the Windies Tests: Virat Kohli (captain), KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who was highly praised for his batting and captaincy during the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2018, has been omitted from the Indian Test team squad against West Indies. The two-match series, starting October 4 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, will see young Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari in the 15-member squad, instead of in-form Rohit Sharma. However, this decision by the Indian selectors did not go well with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Sharma's fans, who took to their Twitter handle to question the think-tanks. The veteran off-spinner said he just cannot digest Rohit's exclusion from the Indian Test squad. Fans too were left scratching their heads, with many taking to Twitter to vent their anger. Sharma, who captained India in the absence of Virat Kohli, finished the Asia Cup 2018 as the second highest run-getter behind only teammate Shikhar Dhawan. Rohit scored 317 runs in five Asia Cup 2018 matches at an average of 105.67 Rohit last played a Test for India against South Africa in January earlier this year. The right-hander struggled to get going against the Proteas, scoring a total of 78 runs in four innings at an average of 19.50. Indian team for the Windies Tests: Virat Kohli (captain), KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur.

Harbhajan, fans slam selectors over Rohit Sharma Test snub against Windies

Shikhar Dhawan extended his excellent Champions Trophy form to the start of the West Indies tour but heavy rain was threatening to ruin the opening one-day international of a five-match series at the Queen&rsquo;s Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday.

Dhawan stroked an assured 87 and featured in an opening stand of 132 with Ajinkya Rahane (62) as the tourists reached 199 for three off 39.2 batting first when torrential midday showers curtailed their innings.

Such was the intensity of the rainfall that a complete abandonment looked likely. However conditions have since improved, and although India&rsquo;s innings has been declared closed, it remains to be seen if time will allow for a minimum of 20 overs to be faced by the West Indies in reply to constitute a match.

Should only 20 overs be possible, the home side will be required to reach a target of 169.

After West Indies captain Jason Holder chose to field on winning the toss on a bright warm morning, India&rsquo;s openers laid the foundation for a formidable total.&nbsp;

They dominated a bowling attack that lacked for genuine potency in the absence of injured fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, who has been ruled out of consideration for the first two games after breaking down during the series against Afghanistan two weeks earlier.

Rahane made the most of his opportunity with the experienced Rohit Sharma rested from this campaign following the Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

He was first to the half-century but was also the first wicket to fall, deceived by a slower delivery from fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and offering a simple catch to Holder at mid-on.

Dhawan was then joined by captain Virat Kohil and looked certain to complete an 11th ODI hundred only to fall leg-before to Devendra Bishoo 13 runs short of the landmark.&nbsp;

Leg-spinner Bishoo, who was not considered for any of the three ODIs against the Afghans, was the pick of the bowlers with figures of one for 39 from his allotment of ten overs.

As the skies clouded over India lost another wicket in attempting to accelerate with Yuvraj Singh becoming Joseph&rsquo;s second wicket. Kohli and former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni were playing with greater urgency when the showers first arrived with India at 189 for three off 38 overs.

They resumed after half an hour but managed just another eight deliveries before the players were again chased off the field by a downpour that has now left the match in jeopardy.

Apart from the recall of Rahane, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav is making his ODI debut in this match for India.

(AFP)

Should only 20 overs be possible, the home side will be required to reach a target of 169

Shikhar Dhawan extended his excellent Champions Trophy form to the start of the West Indies tour but heavy rain was threatening to ruin the opening one-day international of a five-match series at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday. Dhawan stroked an assured 87 and featured in an opening stand of 132 with Ajinkya Rahane (62) as the tourists reached 199 for three off 39.2 batting first when torrential midday showers curtailed their innings. Such was the intensity of the rainfall that a complete abandonment looked likely. However conditions have since improved, and although India’s innings has been declared closed, it remains to be seen if time will allow for a minimum of 20 overs to be faced by the West Indies in reply to constitute a match. Should only 20 overs be possible, the home side will be required to reach a target of 169. After West Indies captain Jason Holder chose to field on winning the toss on a bright warm morning, India’s openers laid the foundation for a formidable total. They dominated a bowling attack that lacked for genuine potency in the absence of injured fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, who has been ruled out of consideration for the first two games after breaking down during the series against Afghanistan two weeks earlier. Rahane made the most of his opportunity with the experienced Rohit Sharma rested from this campaign following the Champions Trophy. He was first to the half-century but was also the first wicket to fall, deceived by a slower delivery from fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and offering a simple catch to Holder at mid-on. Dhawan was then joined by captain Virat Kohil and looked certain to complete an 11th ODI hundred only to fall leg-before to Devendra Bishoo 13 runs short of the landmark. Leg-spinner Bishoo, who was not considered for any of the three ODIs against the Afghans, was the pick of the bowlers with figures of one for 39 from his allotment of ten overs. As the skies clouded over India lost another wicket in attempting to accelerate with Yuvraj Singh becoming Joseph’s second wicket. Kohli and former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni were playing with greater urgency when the showers first arrived with India at 189 for three off 38 overs. They resumed after half an hour but managed just another eight deliveries before the players were again chased off the field by a downpour that has now left the match in jeopardy. Apart from the recall of Rahane, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav is making his ODI debut in this match for India. (AFP)

India vs West Indies ODI cut short due to torrential rain

The weather gods gave West Indies a lifeline in their quest to avoid defeat in the second test against India when rain washed out the final session of day three in Kingston, Jamaica on Monday. 
 
India built a first-innings lead of 304 runs before captain Virat Kohli declared at 500 for nine just before tea as light rain fell at Sabina Park. 
 
But the showers persisted and the India bowlers did not get a chance to have a crack at the West Indies top order. 
 
Play is scheduled to resume 30 minutes early today at 9.30 AM local time (1430 GMT), but the forecast is for more rain, with a tropical wave heading towards the island. 
 
India lead the four-test series after winning the first match in Antigua last week. 
 
Ajinkya Rahane scored his seventh test century, and the third in four innings, compiling an unbeaten 108 off 237 balls. He made 127 and 100 not out against South Africa in Delhi in December. 
 
Rahane brought up his century with a somewhat lucky boundary when he edged off-spinner Roston Chase between the wicketkeeper and first slip. 
 
&quot;Everyone expected at some point he would up the tempo a bit, but he just played his natural role,&quot; said retired West Indies batting great Viv Richards of Rahane. 
 
&quot;It was a perfect example of what this guy is all about where batsmanship is concerned.&quot; 
 
Richards added that although Rahane batted mostly conservatively, a towering six over cover demonstrated the quality to switch gears when necessary. 
 
&quot;That&#39;s a class shot. When he needs to up the tempo, he certainly looks like he does have the quality to get that done.&quot; 
 
The West Indies bowlers stuck to their task well, keeping the India batsmen subdued for long periods. 
 
It took the visitors 171 overs to compile their mammoth total as they scored at less than three runs per over. 
 
Chase (5-121) returned the best figures and was on a hat-trick after dismissing Amit Mishra (caught bat-pad for 21) and 
 
Mohammed Shami for a golden duck. 
 
Captain Jason Holder got little reward for his efforts, conceding only 72 runs from 34.2 lively overs. 
 
He picked up only one wicket, his first of the series, when he trapped Wriddhiman Saha lbw for 47. 
 
(Reuters)

Ajinkya Rahane scored his seventh test century and third in four innings, compiling an unbeaten 108 off 237 balls

The weather gods gave West Indies a lifeline in their quest to avoid defeat in the second test against India when rain washed out the final session of day three in Kingston, Jamaica on Monday. India built a first-innings lead of 304 runs before captain Virat Kohli declared at 500 for nine just before tea as light rain fell at Sabina Park. But the showers persisted and the India bowlers did not get a chance to have a crack at the West Indies top order. Play is scheduled to resume 30 minutes early today at 9.30 AM local time (1430 GMT), but the forecast is for more rain, with a tropical wave heading towards the island. India lead the four-test series after winning the first match in Antigua last week. Ajinkya Rahane scored his seventh test century, and the third in four innings, compiling an unbeaten 108 off 237 balls. He made 127 and 100 not out against South Africa in Delhi in December. Rahane brought up his century with a somewhat lucky boundary when he edged off-spinner Roston Chase between the wicketkeeper and first slip. "Everyone expected at some point he would up the tempo a bit, but he just played his natural role," said retired West Indies batting great Viv Richards of Rahane. "It was a perfect example of what this guy is all about where batsmanship is concerned." Richards added that although Rahane batted mostly conservatively, a towering six over cover demonstrated the quality to switch gears when necessary. "That's a class shot. When he needs to up the tempo, he certainly looks like he does have the quality to get that done." The West Indies bowlers stuck to their task well, keeping the India batsmen subdued for long periods. It took the visitors 171 overs to compile their mammoth total as they scored at less than three runs per over. Chase (5-121) returned the best figures and was on a hat-trick after dismissing Amit Mishra (caught bat-pad for 21) and Mohammed Shami for a golden duck. Captain Jason Holder got little reward for his efforts, conceding only 72 runs from 34.2 lively overs. He picked up only one wicket, his first of the series, when he trapped Wriddhiman Saha lbw for 47. (Reuters)

Rain gives West Indies lifeline against dominant India

Ravichandran Ashwin completed a magnificent all-round performance with seven wickets to bowl India to a crushing victory by an innings and 92 runs on the fourth day of the first Test against the West Indies in Antigua on Sunday. 
 
His haul of seven for 83 off 25 overs followed his third Test hundred - 113, is India&#39;s massive first innings total of 566 for eight declared at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. 
 
Resuming their second innings following on at the overnight position of 21 for one, the West Indies were dismissed for 231 in another abject batting display, despite half-centuries by Marlon Samuels and Carlos Brathwaite and a ninth-wicket stand of 95 between Brathwaite and Devendra Bishoo (45). 
 
This result was India&#39;s largest margin of victory in a Test match outside of Asia. 
 
&quot;We were really eager to get going in this series,&quot; said a delighted Indian captain Virat Kohli after the match. 
 
&quot;Everything came together nicely, from the batting performance to dismissing the West Indies twice. We went with three seamers because of the amount of grass on the wicket and it worked for us.&quot; 
 
 
&quot;Virat told me I needed to put in a good spell&quot;&nbsp; 
 
Wicketless throughout the first innings and for the first nine overs of his second innings effort, Ashwin scythed through the heart of the home side&#39;s batting in the afternoon session, reaping a five-wicket haul and then finishing off the match with the last two wickets just after tea to give India a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. 
 
He was fortunate to claim his first wicket, opening batsman Rajendra Chandrika adjudged caught at the wicket for a painstaking 31 in over three hours at the crease.&nbsp; 
 
But there was no doubt about the demolition effected thereafter, including dismissing Samuels for his first half-century in 12 Test innings, as six wickets tumbled for 44 runs. 
 
&quot;Virat told me I needed to put in a good spell this afternoon and I&#39;m glad I was able to deliver,&quot; said Ashwin, reflecting on his superb performance with the ball. 
 
&quot;I wasn&#39;t getting the right sort of rhythm yesterday but today was very different.&quot; 
 
Such was the speed of the collapse that India looked on course to complete the win well before the tea interval. 
 
However Brathwaite and Bishoo offered resistance that was entertaining for the few home fans in the stands and more than a little irritating for Virat Kohli and his men who were kept waiting to celebrate a comprehensive win. 
 
Brathwaite finished unbeaten on 51, his third half-century in as many Tests, but with just one wicket for 242 runs so far in his young career, his value as a frontline bowler remains highly questionable. 
 
&quot;We obviously need to bowl a bit better,&quot; said a downcast West Indies captain Jason Holder in the aftermath of the heavy defeat.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;I`m not sure what we can expect from the pitch for the next Test in Jamaica. It&#39;s been a bit flat of late but we`ll have to see what our options are when we get there.&quot; 
 
Apart from earning the West Indies a modicum of respect, the ninth-wicket pairing`s defiance also embarrassed the frontline batting which once again failed to cope with India&#39;s potent combination of pace and spin. 
 
Umesh Yadav got his team off to the perfect start in the morning, the fast bowler claiming the important wicket of Darren Bravo without any addition to the overnight score.&nbsp; 
 
Samuels then made the most of a narrow escape when an appeal for a catch to the wicketkeeper off Mohammed Shami was turned down after consideration of the television replays. 
 
Amid growing questions about his place in the side following 11 consecutive Test innings of scores lower than 20, the elegant right-hander stroked 11 fours in an even 50 before being bowled by Ashwin.&nbsp; 
 
His demise came just after Jermaine Blackwood fell for his second duck of the match and Ashwin added the wickets of Roston Chase and captain Jason Holder to turn the match into a formality. 
 
Wrist-spinner Amit Mishra accounted for Shane Dowrich in the midst of the rout before Brathwaite and Bishoo held up the victory celebrations. 
 
Fittingly, it was left to Ashwin to claim the final two wickets in the space of three deliveries and make his team even heavier favourites going into the second Test beginning on Saturday in Jamaica. 
 
(AFP)

This result was India's largest margin of victory in a Test match outside of Asia

Ravichandran Ashwin completed a magnificent all-round performance with seven wickets to bowl India to a crushing victory by an innings and 92 runs on the fourth day of the first Test against the West Indies in Antigua on Sunday. His haul of seven for 83 off 25 overs followed his third Test hundred - 113, is India's massive first innings total of 566 for eight declared at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Resuming their second innings following on at the overnight position of 21 for one, the West Indies were dismissed for 231 in another abject batting display, despite half-centuries by Marlon Samuels and Carlos Brathwaite and a ninth-wicket stand of 95 between Brathwaite and Devendra Bishoo (45). This result was India's largest margin of victory in a Test match outside of Asia. "We were really eager to get going in this series," said a delighted Indian captain Virat Kohli after the match. "Everything came together nicely, from the batting performance to dismissing the West Indies twice. We went with three seamers because of the amount of grass on the wicket and it worked for us." "Virat told me I needed to put in a good spell" Wicketless throughout the first innings and for the first nine overs of his second innings effort, Ashwin scythed through the heart of the home side's batting in the afternoon session, reaping a five-wicket haul and then finishing off the match with the last two wickets just after tea to give India a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. He was fortunate to claim his first wicket, opening batsman Rajendra Chandrika adjudged caught at the wicket for a painstaking 31 in over three hours at the crease. But there was no doubt about the demolition effected thereafter, including dismissing Samuels for his first half-century in 12 Test innings, as six wickets tumbled for 44 runs. "Virat told me I needed to put in a good spell this afternoon and I'm glad I was able to deliver," said Ashwin, reflecting on his superb performance with the ball. "I wasn't getting the right sort of rhythm yesterday but today was very different." Such was the speed of the collapse that India looked on course to complete the win well before the tea interval. However Brathwaite and Bishoo offered resistance that was entertaining for the few home fans in the stands and more than a little irritating for Virat Kohli and his men who were kept waiting to celebrate a comprehensive win. Brathwaite finished unbeaten on 51, his third half-century in as many Tests, but with just one wicket for 242 runs so far in his young career, his value as a frontline bowler remains highly questionable. "We obviously need to bowl a bit better," said a downcast West Indies captain Jason Holder in the aftermath of the heavy defeat. "I`m not sure what we can expect from the pitch for the next Test in Jamaica. It's been a bit flat of late but we`ll have to see what our options are when we get there." Apart from earning the West Indies a modicum of respect, the ninth-wicket pairing`s defiance also embarrassed the frontline batting which once again failed to cope with India's potent combination of pace and spin. Umesh Yadav got his team off to the perfect start in the morning, the fast bowler claiming the important wicket of Darren Bravo without any addition to the overnight score. Samuels then made the most of a narrow escape when an appeal for a catch to the wicketkeeper off Mohammed Shami was turned down after consideration of the television replays. Amid growing questions about his place in the side following 11 consecutive Test innings of scores lower than 20, the elegant right-hander stroked 11 fours in an even 50 before being bowled by Ashwin. His demise came just after Jermaine Blackwood fell for his second duck of the match and Ashwin added the wickets of Roston Chase and captain Jason Holder to turn the match into a formality. Wrist-spinner Amit Mishra accounted for Shane Dowrich in the midst of the rout before Brathwaite and Bishoo held up the victory celebrations. Fittingly, it was left to Ashwin to claim the final two wickets in the space of three deliveries and make his team even heavier favourites going into the second Test beginning on Saturday in Jamaica. (AFP)

?Ashwin spins India to crushing 1st Test victory against West Indies

India skipper Virat Kohli, calling on his side to create a winning habit,&nbsp;has admitted that they are looking forward to a series whitewash against West Indies after claiming an emphatic win by an innings and 92 runs against the hosts in the first Test here at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium last evening. 
 
&quot;If we have a chance to win 4-0, then why not. We don&#39;t need to get complacent. If we end up getting a 2-0 lead, it&#39;s not that we&#39;re playing for a draw in the next two tests. We want to create winning habits, good habits. And you know, winning is contagious. As we know, if we learn to win Test matches, then we&#39;ll learn how to win Tests everywhere. We will learn how to play in different situations and we will know exactly what to do when a certain situation is going a certain way,&quot; said Kohli, who scored his maiden double century. 
 
Off-Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was adjudged &#39;Man of the match&#39;, led from the front as he contributed 113 runs in his side&#39;s innings before claiming seven wickets as the Caribbean side were bundled out for 231 in their second innings. 
 
India declared their first innings at 566-8. 
 
Reflecting on India&#39;s strategy, an ecstatic Kohli revealed that his side would not pay attention to their previous laurels and would focus on one game at a time. 
 
&quot;That&#39;s what we need to do. We need to look at every game as a fresh game and execute our plans and win as a team. Everyone is looking to contribute and that`s the most important thing with this team. I certainly feel very positive going forward with the way we have played,&quot; he added. 
 
Describing the win as &#39;perfect&#39;, the 27-year-old swashbuckling batsman credited his side&#39;s bowling department for the massive victory while adding that his side executed the plan really well. 
 
&quot;If you look at it logically, that&#39;s probably the perfect finish, which every team looks for. The seamers usually dominate the first innings when you play away from home. The wicket tires out on day four and five. That&#39;s when the spinners come into play. In the first innings, spinners are taking couple of the breakthrough wickets. In the second innings, fast bowlers are doing this for you and then the spinners will open it up again. I think it was a wonderful partnership bowling by all our bowlers in the two innings. And the batsmen as well,&quot; he added. 
 
India, which is bidding to clinch third consecutive series whitewash against the Caribbean side, have now taken a one-nil lead in the four-match series. 
 
The two sides will play the second match at Sabina Park in Jamaica from July 30. 
 
(ANI)&nbsp;

'We need to look at every game as a fresh game and execute our plans and win as a team'

India skipper Virat Kohli, calling on his side to create a winning habit, has admitted that they are looking forward to a series whitewash against West Indies after claiming an emphatic win by an innings and 92 runs against the hosts in the first Test here at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium last evening. "If we have a chance to win 4-0, then why not. We don't need to get complacent. If we end up getting a 2-0 lead, it's not that we're playing for a draw in the next two tests. We want to create winning habits, good habits. And you know, winning is contagious. As we know, if we learn to win Test matches, then we'll learn how to win Tests everywhere. We will learn how to play in different situations and we will know exactly what to do when a certain situation is going a certain way," said Kohli, who scored his maiden double century. Off-Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was adjudged 'Man of the match', led from the front as he contributed 113 runs in his side's innings before claiming seven wickets as the Caribbean side were bundled out for 231 in their second innings. India declared their first innings at 566-8. Reflecting on India's strategy, an ecstatic Kohli revealed that his side would not pay attention to their previous laurels and would focus on one game at a time. "That's what we need to do. We need to look at every game as a fresh game and execute our plans and win as a team. Everyone is looking to contribute and that`s the most important thing with this team. I certainly feel very positive going forward with the way we have played," he added. Describing the win as 'perfect', the 27-year-old swashbuckling batsman credited his side's bowling department for the massive victory while adding that his side executed the plan really well. "If you look at it logically, that's probably the perfect finish, which every team looks for. The seamers usually dominate the first innings when you play away from home. The wicket tires out on day four and five. That's when the spinners come into play. In the first innings, spinners are taking couple of the breakthrough wickets. In the second innings, fast bowlers are doing this for you and then the spinners will open it up again. I think it was a wonderful partnership bowling by all our bowlers in the two innings. And the batsmen as well," he added. India, which is bidding to clinch third consecutive series whitewash against the Caribbean side, have now taken a one-nil lead in the four-match series. The two sides will play the second match at Sabina Park in Jamaica from July 30. (ANI)

Indian skipper Kohli calls on teammates not to get complacent post Antigua Test win

Virat Kohli became the first Indian captain to post a test double century overseas as the tourists played their way into a virtually unbeatable position on the second day of the first test against West Indies in Antigua on Friday.

Kohli scored 200 as India hit 566 for eight declared, sharing a 168-run fifth stand wicket with Ravichandran Ashwin (113), who was dropped on 43 by wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich and made the West Indies pay by compiling a century.

West Indies were 31 for one in their first innings at the close of play with Kraigg Brathwaite (11) and nightwatchman Devendra Bishoo (0) at the crease.

Rajendra Chandrika went for 16 in the penultimate over of the day when he got a thick edge to the keeper off paceman Mohammed Shami.

The day belonged to Kohli, who completed his double tonne just before lunch by pulling a single to deep mid-wicket.

He went down on his knees and kissed the turf as retired West Indies great Viv Richards, after whom the venue in North Sound is named, joined in the applause from the stands.

Kohli, who struck 24 fours in 283 balls, was out shortly after lunch when he got a thick inside edge on to his stumps off fast bowler Shannon Gabriel (2-65).

Leg-spinner Bishoo (3-163) looked dangerous at times but for the most part the home attack posed few problems for the batsmen on a flat track.

Ashwin, who registered his third test century, said a more disciplined approach was the key to his success.

&quot;I&#39;ve been looking forward to this opportunity,&quot; he said in an on-field interview after being promoted to number six in the order. &quot;I really enjoy my batting and there have been times in the past when I&#39;ve been a little too flashy.&quot;

&quot;I know if I have to get into the top seven or six I really need to tighten my game so I&#39;ve really worked on it. I&#39;ve never left so many balls (outside off stump) in my life.&quot;

India&#39;s total left West Indies looking to occupy the crease for three more days to squeeze a draw in the first of four tests between the teams.

&quot;It&#39;s not going to be easy. We&#39;ll have to prise every wicket out,&quot; said Ashwin. 
 
(Reuters)

First Indian captain to post 200 runs in international cricket as India hit 566 on the second day of the first test against West Indies

Virat Kohli became the first Indian captain to post a test double century overseas as the tourists played their way into a virtually unbeatable position on the second day of the first test against West Indies in Antigua on Friday. Kohli scored 200 as India hit 566 for eight declared, sharing a 168-run fifth stand wicket with Ravichandran Ashwin (113), who was dropped on 43 by wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich and made the West Indies pay by compiling a century. West Indies were 31 for one in their first innings at the close of play with Kraigg Brathwaite (11) and nightwatchman Devendra Bishoo (0) at the crease. Rajendra Chandrika went for 16 in the penultimate over of the day when he got a thick edge to the keeper off paceman Mohammed Shami. The day belonged to Kohli, who completed his double tonne just before lunch by pulling a single to deep mid-wicket. He went down on his knees and kissed the turf as retired West Indies great Viv Richards, after whom the venue in North Sound is named, joined in the applause from the stands. Kohli, who struck 24 fours in 283 balls, was out shortly after lunch when he got a thick inside edge on to his stumps off fast bowler Shannon Gabriel (2-65). Leg-spinner Bishoo (3-163) looked dangerous at times but for the most part the home attack posed few problems for the batsmen on a flat track. Ashwin, who registered his third test century, said a more disciplined approach was the key to his success. "I've been looking forward to this opportunity," he said in an on-field interview after being promoted to number six in the order. "I really enjoy my batting and there have been times in the past when I've been a little too flashy." "I know if I have to get into the top seven or six I really need to tighten my game so I've really worked on it. I've never left so many balls (outside off stump) in my life." India's total left West Indies looking to occupy the crease for three more days to squeeze a draw in the first of four tests between the teams. "It's not going to be easy. We'll have to prise every wicket out," said Ashwin. (Reuters)

Cricketer Virat Kohli scores maiden double hundred overseas, makes history as India take command

india-vs-west-indies

India Vs West Indies, News on India Vs West Indies, stories on India Vs West Indies, articles on India Vs West Indies, India Vs West Indies stories at Wion, India Vs West Indies news, India Vs West Indies latest news

india vs-west-indies