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India beat the West Indies by four wickets at Perth today in a tense match that saw both sides losing wickets rapidly. Set 183 to win, the men in blue got home with 185 on board in 39.1 overs
The West Indies, who opted to bat first after winning the toss, lost their first two wickets in quick succession with D R Smith getting caught behind off Mohammed Shami for 6, with 8 on the board, and M N Samuel run out for 2, with 15.
The Carribean batting was lacklustre, with wickets falling at regular intervals, though there was considerable resistance from holder, who top scored with 57, and was part of the only 50-run partnership in the innings.
The Windies folded up with 182 on board in 44.2 overs. Shami was the top wicket taker with 3 for 35 off 8 overs, at an economy of 4.37
The Indian innings was just a shade better, losing 4 wickets with just 78 on board. Things began to look up when Suresh Raina fell for 22 with 107 on board. Tension mounted in the Indian stands when Russell sent Jadeja back with 134 piled up for India.
It was up to Dhoni and tail-ender Ravichandra Ashwin to hold the fort till the end and save the day for the men in blue. The captain made 45 runs while Ashwin stayed put at 16. India ended with 185 runs and a four wicket win, to post its fourth consecutive victory in the World Cup. Its place in the last eight is now sealed.
