India routs West Indies by innings in Ahmedabad Test, wins by 140 runs
Posted on Oct 5, 2025 by Zander Beaumont
When KL Rahul, top-order batsman for India reached his hundred, the crowd at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad knew a dominant win was coming. On October 4, 2025, the hosts demolished the West Indies by an innings and 140 runs, clinching a 1‑0 lead in the five‑match series. The victory wasn’t just a scoreboard shock; it underscored India’s depth in both batting and bowling as the team gears up for a crucial home season.
Background: India‑West Indies Test rivalry
Historically, India has held a strong record at the Modi Stadium, winning 14 of the 16 Tests played there since its opening in 2021. The last time West Indies managed a first‑innings lead on Indian soil was back in 2016, a statistic that added extra spice to the 2025 encounter.
Both sides entered the match with contrasting forms. India, fresh from a 2‑0 series win against England, were looking to cement their top‑rank in the ICC Test standings. West Indies, meanwhile, had just returned from a blistering tour of Pakistan where they struggled against spin, making their decision to bowl first after winning the toss a calculated gamble.
Day‑by‑Day breakdown
Day 1 – West Indies’ early wobble
The visitors chose to bat, but the pitch offered subtle turn that immediately tested their technique. A disciplined spell from Kuldeep Yadav rattled the top order, and West Indies limped to 162 all out, with only Kraigg Brathwaite reaching a modest 35.
Day 2 – India’s mammoth total
India replied with a towering 448. After a steady start, Dhruv Jurel smashed 54 off 91 balls, forging a 120‑run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. Rahul’s century, paced at 100 runs off 190 balls, came in the 61st over and anchored the innings.
“It was about patience and timing, not just power,” Rahul said in the post‑match interview. “The pitch was rewarding the right lengths, and I tried to stay composed.”
Jadeja’s 104* was a blend of aggressive driving and deft footwork, while Mohammed Siraj added a quick 31, ensuring the total was posted before tea.
Day 3 – West Indies collapse
The second innings was a rout. West Indies slumped to 146 all out in just 45 overs. Early breakthroughs came from Jadeja, who claimed 3 for 30, and Siraj, who took a crucial catch off Yashasvi Jaiswal to dismiss Shai Hope for a single.
“Our bowlers kept the pressure, and the wickets kept falling,” said West Indies captain Kieron Pollard. “We need to regroup and find a way to counter the spin at home conditions.”
Key performances and stats
- KL Rahul – 100 runs (190 balls)
- Ravindra Jadeja – 104* and 3/30
- Dhruv Jurel – 54 (91 balls)
- Mohammed Siraj – 31 and a pivotal catch
- West Indies – 162 & 146 all out
India’s 286‑run first‑innings lead is the largest margin at the venue since the 2022 India‑Australia Test, where India won by an innings and 99 runs.
Reactions from the cricketing world
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sanjay Bangar praised the team’s “all‑round brilliance,” noting that the win “sets a benchmark for the upcoming series against England.”
Former West Indies great Brian Lara commented on the visitors’ struggles: “The spin on this surface is unforgiving. West Indies will need to adapt quickly if they hope to bounce back.”
Implications for the series and beyond
With a 1‑0 lead, India now controls the narrative. The win not only boosts morale but also fortifies their claim for the top spot in the ICC Test rankings ahead of the year‑end championship. For West Indies, the defeat highlights a glaring vulnerability against quality spin – an issue they must address before the upcoming tour of South Africa.
Analysts project that if India maintains this form, they could wrap up the series in three matches, echoing the 3‑0 whitewash they delivered against Bangladesh in 2023.
What lies ahead?
The second Test is slated for October 12 at the same stadium, meaning both sides will have a week to adjust. India’s selectors are already rumored to be considering a third‑spin option, while West Indies may recall experienced off‑spinner Alzarri Joseph for the next game.
Fans can expect a strategic battle, especially around the fourth‑day pitch, which historically slows down, favoring spinners even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect India's standing in the ICC Test rankings?
The emphatic victory lifts India to the top of the ICC Test table with 124 points, edging out Australia by three points. Maintaining this momentum could secure them the number‑one spot for the rest of the calendar year.
What were the main reasons behind West Indies' collapse in the second innings?
A combination of disciplined spin bowling from Jadeja, accurate seam movement from Siraj, and a few poor shot selections doomed the chase. The pitch’s turn intensified after lunch, and the visitors never found a rhythm.
Who are the key players to watch in the upcoming second Test?
For India, keep an eye on emerging opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and all‑rounder Washington Sundar. West Indies will likely lean on veteran opener Shai Hope and the experience of spin bowler Alzarri Joseph.
What does this result mean for the upcoming India‑England series later this year?
The win reinforces India’s confidence in their spin attack, a crucial weapon against England’s traditionally strong batting line‑up. It also provides a morale boost that could translate into a more aggressive approach when facing England on home soil.