India are set to return to ODI cricket when they take on the West Indies in the opening match of the series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. With Shubman Gill leading the side, India enter the contest with an impressive mix of experience, youth and versatility across departments.

Senior stars return as India begin campaign against West Indies

The return of senior campaigners Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli provides India with considerable experience at the top of the order. Alongside them, the presence of aggressive batters such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad gives the hosts plenty of attacking options. KL Rahul adds further experience to the batting unit and can also contribute behind the stumps, while Dhruv Jurel provides another wicketkeeping option.

India’s bowling attack also presents a combination of experience and emerging talent. Kuldeep Yadav remains an important weapon in the spin department, particularly if the surface begins to offer assistance as the match progresses. The pace attack features Mohammed Siraj, whose ability to generate movement and pressure with the new ball can be crucial, while Prasidh Krishna provides another option with his ability to extract bounce from the surface. Youngsters Auqib Nabi and Gurnoor Brar will also be keen to make their presence felt if given an opportunity.

West Indies carry plenty Of match-winning options

West Indies will be led by Shai Hope, with the wicketkeeper-batter expected to play an important role in holding their innings together. Hope’s ability to build an innings could prove valuable against India’s varied bowling attack. John Campbell and Keacy Carty add further stability to the batting group, while Sherfane Rutherford brings the kind of power-hitting that can quickly change the momentum of an ODI. The visitors also have useful all-round options in Roston Chase and Justin Greaves.

With the ball, West Indies will rely on the pace of Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph to challenge India’s strong batting lineup. Gudakesh Motie provides another spin option and could become particularly effective if the conditions offer some assistance.

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India vs West Indies ODI series schedule

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

• India: Star Sports Network; Jio Hotstar
• United Kingdom: TNT Sports; Discovery+
• Australia: Fox cricket; Kayo Sports
• USA and Canada: Willow TV (Sign up here)
• South Africa: SuperSport
• Pakistan: Tapmad
• New Zealand: Sky Sports 3
• West Indies: ESPN Caribbean

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