New Delhi, Oct 13 (UNI) John Campbell finally ended a long wait for Test glory as he scored his maiden Test century, anchoring West Indies to 252 for 3 in 78 overs in their second innings at lunch on Day 4 of the second Test against India.
Campbell, who has endured 50 innings without a hundred, struck a patient and commanding 115 off 199 balls, laced with 12 boundaries and three sixes, before Ravindra Jadeja broke the 177-run partnership with Shai Hope.
The Jamaican opener’s landmark came with a perfectly timed slog-sweep off Jadeja that sailed into the stands, earning a standing ovation from the spectators and teammates. Campbell’s innings was a mix of calm patience and selective aggression, frustrating India’s bowlers and laying the foundation for the Windies’ recovery.
Shai Hope continued to impress at the other end, unbeaten on 92, playing elegant drives and cuts, while Roston Chase contributed 23*, hitting a six and a couple of boundaries off Washington Sundar. Together, they kept the scoreboard ticking and absorbed pressure from India’s pace and spin attack.
India had brief moments of hope. Jasprit Bumrah’s appeal for a close LBW against Campbell in the 55th over was reviewed, but UltraEdge showed a faint inside edge, leaving the decision not out. Jadeja eventually claimed the breakthrough when Campbell was trapped leg-before attempting a reverse sweep in the 63rd over, ending the centurion’s brilliant knock.
Despite the setback, West Indies are trailing by 18 runs at lunch. India will look to strike early in the post-lunch session to regain control, while the Windies aim to consolidate further and tilt the momentum in their favour.
Brief Scores:
West Indies 1st innings – 248 in 81.5 overs
West Indies 2nd Innings – 252/3 in 78 overs (John Campbell 115, Shai Hope 92*, Roston Chase 23*; Ravindra Jadeja 1/75)
India 1st innings – 518-5 (134.2 Ov)
