India's captain Shreyas Iyer (L) and teammate Ishan Kishan (R) run between the wickets during the first T20 international cricket match between India and West Indies at the Ekana cricket stadium in Lucknow on October 6, 2026— (Photo by Indranil MUKHERJEE / AFP)

Skipper Shreyas Iyer led from the front with a sensational maiden T20I century, powering India to a comprehensive victory over the West Indies in the opening T20 International.

Chasing a target of 172 set by the Caribbean side, Team India overhauled the total with consummate ease, crossing the finish line in just 14.4 overs.

The chase was spearheaded by Iyer, who played a breathtaking knock, remaining unbeaten on 102 off just 43 deliveries. The captain reached his maiden century in a blistering 42 balls, tearing the West Indian bowling attack apart with 10 boundaries and 6 massive sixes. His onslaught reached a crescendo in the 14th over off Matthew Forde, where he plundered 24 runs, including three towering sixes and a boundary.

Useful contributions from the top order ensured India stayed well ahead of the required rate throughout the innings. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan chipped in with a brisk 37, while Abhishek Sharma scored 21 and Sanju Samson added 11 to set up the effortless chase.

With this dominant display, India take a 1-0 lead in the T20I series, fuelled by an authoritative masterclass from their skipper.


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