IND vs WI: Match preview, TV listing, Key players
With the 2019 ICC World Cup only seven months away, India have some issues to address when they take on West Indies in the 5-match ODI series, starting today, in Guwahati. A formidable India need some answers about their middle order puzzle. This is the perfect opportunity, against a reeling West Indies, to put the gas on the pedal. Here's our pre-match report.
India announce their 12-man squad for the first ODI
India to attack with three-man spin show
Going by the team sheet, India will be testing West Indies with quality spin attack. The three spinners are key to India's chances in applying brakes on the West Indies batting. India have been successful, in this format, with the spinners playing a key role. Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Shami will look to replicate their 2015 World Cup show to cement their spots.
Pant, Rayudu the focus in middle order
Rishabh Pant, as expected, gets to play as a batsman with MS Dhoni donning the wicket-keeping role. It is crucial for Pant to show that he can add firepower in the middle. He has been in great form in Tests and this is a big chance for the youngster. Ambati Rayudu, at number four, holds the key to solve India's middle order woes.
Windies will look to revolve around skipper Holder
West Indies will be aiming to gain a lot from the series and address loopholes in the team. In Jason Holder, they have a calm skipper who knows what he is doing. West Indies look pretty much depleted on paper, but they are expected to play freely without any pressure. The batting needs to show some sheen against a top quality Indian attack.
IND v WI: Players to watch out for
India's top three are all in prime form with the bat, therefore the onus will be on them once again. Shikhar Dhawan, in particular, has been enjoying an amazing run this year in ODIs and he has the chance to pile up runs. For West Indies, Marlon Samuels at 37, holds the ace for them in batting in absence of several key players.
When and where to watch the match?
Star Sports network is the official broadcaster of the series. One can watch matches on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi and Hindi HD. The match will also be streamed live on Hotstar. It is scheduled for 1:30 PM kick-off.
