In the first ODI match of the three-match series, India will take on the West Indies at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown in Barbados today i.e. July 27 at 7:30 PM IST.
India have been playing well lately, winning three out of five of the matches they have played in this format. With only one victory in their previous five games, West Indies, on the other side, maybe in some difficulty.
With skipper Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli leading the way, India enters the contest with some top-tier players. However, Gill’s recent form appeared to be declining while Sharma’s form appeared to be remarkable. But with the format changing we can see Gill getting back in form. Fans will also see the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya back in the blues after quite a long time. In addition, specialized wicketkeeper Sanju Samson might also be given a chance in place of Ishan Kishan. Umran Malik, a promising fast bowler who has taken 13 wickets in just eight games so far in his short career, could also return to the ODI team. Meanwhile, it will also be interesting to see whether both, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, get a game here at the Kennington Oval.
The two-time World Cup champion West Indies, on the contrary, missed out on qualifying for the ICC ODI Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 this year for the first time in their history. WI’s batting side currently appears more formidable with captain Shai Hope and the additions of Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell. However, bowling would still be their main concern as no one seems sufficiently powerful to make a breakthrough in the middle overs. Alzarri Joseph and Romario Shepherd can tease batters but are still far from troubling them. It is mainly about resetting for the home side and getting to know the changes they might have to undertake in the near future.
Head-to-Head:
Of the 139 games contested between the two countries so far, India have won 70 and West Indies 63; two games were tied and four ended in a no result.
Where-to-watch:
TV: DD Sports