1997: Windies rout India as Chanderpaul strokes century (Barbados)

The fourth ODI between West Indies and India was played at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, on May 3, 1997.

India, batting first, struggled against the pace and accuracy of Courtney Walsh and Curtly Ambrose, who made early inroads into the top order. Rahul Dravid and Mohammad Azharuddin attempted to steady the innings, while Ajay Jadeja provided the principal contribution with a composed 68.

Robin Singh added valuable runs in the middle order, but India were unable to build sufficient momentum, finishing at 199 for 7 in their 50 overs.

West Indies produced a magnificent response, with openers Stuart Williams and Shivnarine Chanderpaul dominating the Indian bowling attack.

Williams played a patient and assured innings, while Chanderpaul displayed excellent timing, placement and stroke-making ability. The pair gradually accelerated, turning what appeared to be a competitive target into a remarkably comfortable chase. India’s bowlers were unable to break the partnership as the West Indian openers maintained complete control throughout.

Chanderpaul completed an outstanding unbeaten 109, his maiden ODI century, while Williams finished on 78 not out. Their unbroken 200-run opening partnership guided West Indies to 200 without loss in 44.4 overs, securing a comprehensive ten-wicket victory.

Chanderpaul was deservedly named Player of the Match, and West Indies completed a convincing 3–1 series triumph, underlining their dominance in the Caribbean.

West Indies vs India, 4th ODI at Bridgetown, May 03 1997.