West Indies defeated India by 24 runs in the fourth T20I in Hyderabad to level the five-match series 2-2 and force a decisive final match. A sensational century from Shai Hope and a match-winning five-wicket haul by Keemo Paul powered the visitors to a crucial victory.
Batting first, West Indies posted an imposing 247/3 in 20 overs, with captain Shai Hope leading the charge with a blistering 102 off just 50 balls. Sherfane Rutherford provided a strong finish, remaining unbeaten on 49 from 26 deliveries to help the visitors set India a daunting target of 248.
India began their chase aggressively, with Sanju Samson smashing 56 off 23 balls to give the hosts early momentum. However, Keemo Paul changed the course of the match by dismissing Samson and Ishan Kishan in the same over, putting India under pressure.
Gudakesh Motie further dented India’s hopes with two quick wickets, while Romario Shepherd removed Tilak Varma after the batter had scored 43. Nitish Kumar Reddy then launched a counterattack, scoring an explosive 41 off 20 deliveries to keep India in contention.
Paul eventually dismantled India’s lower order, completing an outstanding five-wicket haul to seal the victory for West Indies. India’s chase ended at 223 after Arshdeep Singh’s injury brought the innings to an unfortunate conclusion, leaving the hosts 24 runs short. With the series now level at 2-2, both sides will meet in the fifth and final T20I to decide the winner.