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Can’t take things to heart, everyone’s trying to win: Shadab Khan on Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi’s snub

By Arun NairFebruary 18, 2026
Can’t take things to heart, everyone’s trying to win: Shadab Khan on Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi’s snub

Kohli Century Leads India to Dominant Cricket Victory

India showcased a masterclass in cricket, securing a resounding win. Virat Kohli's magnificent century was the centerpiece, but the entire team contributed to a thorough performance.

The match took place yesterday at the Kensington Oval, Barbados. India faced off against the West Indies in the second ODI of the series. India won by 113 runs, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead.

Kohli's innings was a study in controlled aggression. He reached his century in 110 balls. Statistically speaking, his innings was defined by:

A strike rate of 90.91.
10 boundaries, showcasing placement and timing.
Composed approach against both pace and spin.

His average against the West Indies is now a staggering 68.2. When you look at the data, it's clear Kohli relishes this particular contest.

But it wasn’t just Kohli's show. Shubman Gill continued his good form. His innings provided a solid foundation. Gill's contribution:

A steady 53 off 68 balls.
A strike rate of 77.94, rotating the strike effectively.
Building a crucial partnership with Kohli.

The bowling attack complemented the batting performance. Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the attack, bowling with venom and unsettling the West Indian batsmen. His figures were:

3 wickets for 42 runs.
An economy rate of 4.20, maintaining pressure.
Right in the corridor consistently.

Kuldeep Yadav continued his impressive form. His spin proved difficult to handle.

2 wickets for 38 runs.
An economy rate of 3.80, choking the scoring.
Turning the ball sharply.

The West Indies struggled to build partnerships. No batsman managed to cross the half-century mark. Their batting card:

Highest score of 41 by Shai Hope.
A collective batting average of just 21.4.
Facing a disciplined Indian bowling attack.

Their bowlers also failed to contain the Indian batsmen. Alzarri Joseph was the pick of the bowlers, but even he couldn't stem the flow of runs.

2 wickets for 58 runs.
An economy rate of 5.80.
Lacking consistent support.

India's victory was built on a foundation of strong batting and disciplined bowling. There were no significant collapses, a marked improvement from previous outings. And Kohli’s return to form is a major positive.

This win has several implications for the ongoing cricket calendar. It strengthens India's position in the ODI rankings. It provides momentum heading into crucial tournaments. It also exposes the West Indies' vulnerabilities.

But is this enough? Can India maintain this level of performance consistently? It is a question that looms large.

The final ODI is scheduled for Wednesday. India will look to complete a clean sweep. The West Indies, on the other hand, will be desperate to salvage some pride. What changes will they make? The numbers don't lie, a drastic improvement is needed. They will need to focus on getting their eye in early.