India vs West Indies 1st ODI 2023: Rohit Sharma and Shai Hope to Lead as Confirmed Playing 11 Revealed
The Test series between India and West Indies has come to a close, with India emerging victorious with a 1-0 win. However, the rain-marred 2nd Test resulted in India losing crucial points, affecting their chances for the WTC final qualification. Now, the focus shifts to the much-awaited ODI series, which will serve as a stepping stone for Team India's preparation for the ODI World Cup 2023. Historically, India has had the upper hand in ODIs against West Indies. As the 1st ODI approaches, all eyes are on the confirmed playing 11 for both teams to see how they will perform in this exciting encounter.
India's Best Predicted Playing 11:
Openers: Rohit Sharma (c) & Shubman Gill
Team India boasts a talented pool of openers, including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ishan Kishan. However, the tried and tested pair of Captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill is expected to continue as the opening duo for the first two ODIs. The third ODI might see some experimentation.
Middle-order: Virat Kohli & Sanju Samson (wk)
In the middle-order, India faces the dilemma of playing Ishan Kishan in an unfamiliar position or opting for specialist wicket-keeper Sanju Samson. Given Samson's experience, he is likely to get the nod, allowing Kishan to play his natural game as an opener. Virat Kohli will hold the pivotal number 3 position and will look to continue his excellent form.
Finishers: Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav & Ravindra Jadeja
The finishing duties will be entrusted to the dynamic trio of Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja. Suryakumar Yadav, despite recent struggles, is expected to bat at number 6, allowing him to adapt his T20 prowess to the ODI format. Hardik Pandya's return as a bowler adds strength to the team, and Ravindra Jadeja will bring his all-round skills to the fore. Axar Patel may play if the pitch demands an additional spinner.
Bowlers: Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Umran Malik & Mohammed Siraj
The pace bowling department will be led by Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Umran Malik, and Mohammed Siraj. Jaydev Unadkat and Mukesh Kumar might have limited opportunities. Kuldeep Yadav is favored over Yuzvendra Chahal, given India's recent preference for the left-arm wrist-spinner.
West Indies' Best Predicted Playing 11:
Openers: Brandon King & Kyle Mayers
West Indies will rely on the opening pair of Brandon King and Kyle Mayers to provide a solid start at the top.
Middle-order: Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (c&wk), & Shimron Hetmyer
Keacy Carty, Shai Hope, and Shimron Hetmyer will handle the middle-order responsibilities for the West Indies.
Finishers: Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard & Alick Athanaze
The finishers for the West Indies will be Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, and Alick Athanaze, who will look to finish innings with a flourish.
Bowlers: Dominic Drakes, Alzarri Joseph & Yannic Kariah
Dominic Drakes, Alzarri Joseph, and Yannic Kariah will form the bowling attack for the West Indies.
Top Fantasy Players 11:
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, the top picks for the 1st ODI between India and West Indies are:
Batters: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, & Shimron Hetmyer
Wicket-keepers: Shai Hope & Sanju Samson
All-rounders: Hardik Pandya & Ravindra Jadeja
Bowlers: Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj & Kuldeep Yadav
Conclusion:
The stage is set for an exciting encounter as India takes on West Indies in the 1st ODI of the series. Team India's confirmed playing 11 features a balanced lineup with experienced openers, a formidable middle-order, and powerful finishers. West Indies, on the other hand, will look to their talented players to put up a spirited performance. Cricket enthusiasts and fantasy players alike are eagerly waiting to witness the thrilling clash between these two cricketing giants.
