Tropical storm Earl threatens to derail India's charge to victory in 2nd Test

What eleven West Indies players have not even come close to doing, tropical storm Earl could – to thwart India’s unstoppable charge to victory. With two days left to play and a lead of 304, Earl could be the hosts’ only hope to keep the series alive.

After the third day’s play, which was badly affected by rain stoppages, the Met department issued a storm warning in the evening. Thunderstorm activity associated with the strong and fast-moving area of disturbed weather, about 150 miles east-southeast of Jamaica, has increased through Monday night. There was constant drizzle all through the night as well, which means that even if the storm does not hit the coast, the start of Day 4 will be delayed.

Fishing vessels have been advised to return to land and remain in harbour until the storm clears, people inhabiting low-lying areas have been asked to expect flash flooding and stock up on food and other supplies. It has been predicted that there will be winds in the range of 63-118 kmph, dangerous surf conditions and heavy rainfall over the next two days.

In 2002, a strong tropical storm had hit West Indies, claiming many lives in Jamaica and Haiti, hitting the coast minutes after the conclusion of a Test match involving India. Anil Kumble, the coach of the current batch, was part of the touring party then.

A declaration too late?

The storm has been rising in stature overnight, but the ominous signs were on show on Day 3 itself. No play was possible in the third session because of insufficient light. There were two rain stoppages towards the end of the second session as well, a period which also saw some quick wickets fall as Ajinkya Rahane stood at the other end.

If the match does in fact get washed off, there will be a lot of criticism directed at India’s decision to not declare their innings much earlier. The lead had been secured much before any signs of rain, and the declaration could have come early on Day 3 and the hosts put in to bat.

However, the scale of the impending storm has increased dramatically overnight, and Virat Kohli and co. would not have any inkling of this unseen threat. It is hoped that Earl will deviate before it hits the Jamaican shores, for the sake of safety of many lives as well as the second Test.

India need to win the 4-match series by a margin of at least 3-0 to stand a chance of becoming the No.1 Test team at the end of this series, provided Australia lose to Sri Lanka and England and Pakistan draw.