India will be facing the West Indies for a 3 match ODI series starting from the 6th of February at 1.30 PM IST at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Both teams are coming in to this series on the back of disappointing losses. India went down to South Africa while West Indies were outdone by Ireland. Moreover, India’s squad has been hit by a COVID-19 outbreak with Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, and Navdeep Saini testing positive and being ruled out. On the plus side, Rohit Sharma has returned from injury to take over the captaincy reigns and face MI teammate Kieron Pollard as his opposite number.

Let’s take a look at some key battles that will determine the outcome of this series:

Indian batters vs Walsh and Hosein:

Off late, our batters have struggled against spin which is unheard of for subcontinent players. We’re supposed to be the benchmark setters when it comes to playing spin but that hasn’t been the case. Spinners have been able to dot us up and then dismiss the batter when he tries to cut loose. This trend needs to change and at home will be the best place to start.

Kuldeep-Chahal vs Windies hitters:

A massive problem for us since the start of 2020 in ODI’s has been the inability to take wickets in the middle overs. The management has tried to remedy that by bringing back Kuldeep Yadav into the squad who was lethal when partnered with Yuzvendra Chahal a few years ago. The Windies middle and lower order batters are such that if they aren’t dismissed, they can take their score to astronomical figures. Getting them out is vital. The duo have done it in the past. Let’s hope they can do it again.

Indian bowling at the death:

Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for this series which creates the gaping hole of a death bowler in the team. None of the other bowlers in the squad have had an opportunity to prove themselves at the death as yet and this will be a real test of fire against the Windies’ brute force. Tactics against specific batters will need to be discussed and practiced. There’s no once size fits all solution against this kind of power hitting.

The series promises to be an exciting one for sure. Rohit confirmed that Ishan Kishan will open the innings with him while Surya is almost certain to slot in at number four in the absence of Shreyas Iyer. Its sure to be entertainment of the highest order. Are you excited, Paltan?