India vs West Indies 2nd Test Match:
The much-anticipated 2nd Test between India and West Indies kicked off at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi from October 10 to 14, 2025. Following India’s dominant victory in the first Test, this match held great significance for the visiting West Indies as they sought to bounce back and level the two-match series. As part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle, every session in this Test carries weight beyond the immediate series scoreline.
Pre-Match Build-Up and Expectations
After India’s innings-and-140-run victory in Ahmedabad, expectations were high for another gripping battle on the slower pitches of Delhi. The pitch, known to support batters early on but favour spinners as the game progresses, promised a tactical arm-wrestle between India’s strong spin attack and the resilient West Indies batsmen.
Coaches and captains from both sides discussed the importance of adapting to pitch conditions, with India confident in their home advantage and West Indies eager to exploit any lapses and showcase their fighting spirit.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Delhi pitch presented consistent bounce and carry early, enticing stroke-play from the batters. However, the dry conditions and heat meant the surface would wear, turning sharply to aid the spinners, especially from day three onwards. Weather forecasts predicted dry weather with mild breeze, ideal for cricket and for spinners to exert pressure late in the match.
Team News and Strategies
India went in with a balanced side featuring a mix of experience and youth. The bowling attack focused on spin options around the likes of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav alongside pace spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah.
West Indies looked to their seasoned batsmen, including Kraigg Brathwaite and Shai Hope, to anchor their innings. Bowling-wise, they depended on their pace spearhead Alzarri Joseph and spinner Rahkeem Cornwall to unsettle the Indian batters.
Key Performances and Tactical Insights
India’s dominance was built on clinical spin bowling and timely batting contributions. Spinners turned the match’s tide with their variations and ability to exploit the pitch. The batsmen’s patience and shot selection earned praise.
West Indies’ resilience was notable, but inconsistencies with the bat and missed chances with the ball cost them. Tactical decisions, including bowling rotations and field placements, were analyzed in post-match discussions.
Historical Context and Series Implications
India’s victory confirmed their supremacy at home and deepened their World Test Championship points haul. West Indies faced tough questions about adaptability on Asian tours. The series result impacted rankings and future scheduling considerations.
The Probable playing XI
India’s likely XI for the 2nd Test against West Indies starting on October 10, 2025, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, is expected to remain largely unchanged after their dominant win in the first Test.
The probable India Team playing XI is:
Shubman Gill (Captain)
Yashasvi Jaiswal
KL Rahul
Sai Sudharsan (battling for his spot)
Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain)
Nitish Kumar Reddy
Washington Sundar
Kuldeep Yadav
Jasprit Bumrah
Mohammed Siraj
Key points
Sai Sudharsan is under pressure to cement his place, with Devdutt Padikkal waiting in the wings.
The spin-heavy attack featuring Jaddu, Kuldeep, and Washington Sundar suits the expected turning pitch in Delhi.
Pacers Bumrah and Siraj are likely to share the new ball.
Nitish Kumar Reddy offers depth as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
The Probable West Indies playing XI is
Tagenarine Chanderpaul
John Campbell
Alick Athanaze
Brandon King
Shai Hope (wicketkeeper)
Roston Chase (captain)
Justin Greaves
Jomel Warrican (left-arm spinner)
Khary Pierre (left-arm spinner)
Jayden Seales (lead pace bowler)
Johann Layne
Key insights:
The fast bowling attack is spearheaded by Jayden Seales, with support from Johann Layne and Justin Greaves.
Spin options include Jomel Warrican and Khary Pierre, crucial for the turning Delhi pitch.
The middle order relies heavily on Shai Hope and Roston Chase to stabilize the innings.
Tagenarine Chanderpaul is expected to open and provide steady starts.
Player Interviews and Expert Commentary
Captains and key players reflected on their performances and the critical moments that shaped the match. Experts lauded young Indian talents and discussed areas for West Indies’ improvement.
Conclusion
The 2nd Test match reinforced India’s strengths in home conditions and showcased cricketing skills influenced heavily by pitch and weather. Fans witnessed a complex battle of strategies that will be remembered in the 2025-26 Test season.