India posted 351 for 7 against West Indies in the third and final ODI in Mullanpur on Saturday, with KL Rahul producing a match-defining century to lift the hosts after a difficult start. Rahul smashed 129 off 87 balls, hitting 10 fours and six sixes, as India recovered from 4 for 2 in the opening three overs to set West Indies a formidable target.

India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat, but the decision initially appeared to backfire as Jayden Seales dismissed both Gill and Virat Kohli inside the first three overs. The early wickets left India in a precarious position at 4 for 2, putting pressure on the middle order to rebuild the innings and provide the platform for a competitive total.

Rohit Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad responded with a crucial 137-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilising the Indian innings after the early setbacks. Rohit played a valuable knock of 92 from 85 balls, while Gaikwad contributed 57 off 69 deliveries before both batters were dismissed.

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After the departure of Rohit and Gaikwad, Rahul took charge of the innings and continued India's recovery with Naman Dhir. The pair added 65 runs for the next significant partnership, allowing India to maintain momentum despite losing wickets at the other end as West Indies attempted to restrict the scoring during the middle and final stages.

Rahul accelerated as the innings progressed and brought up his century in impressive fashion, eventually finishing with 129 from just 87 balls. His innings included 10 boundaries and six sixes, providing the major contribution that pushed India beyond the 350-run mark and gave the hosts a strong total in the series finale.

Jayden Seales emerged as West Indies' leading bowler after claiming the key wickets of Gill and Kohli early in the innings. Despite that promising start from the visitors, India's recovery led by Rohit, Gaikwad and Rahul took the score to 351 for 7. West Indies now have the task of chasing the target in the third ODI, with India looking to strike early with the ball.

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