West Indies did not put up much of a fight in the two-Test series against India, losing the Rajkot and Hyderabad Tests within three days.
The Caribbean side are more comfortable in white-ball cricket but this time, absence of star names like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and Evin Lewis means the visitors can expect a tough time against a strong Indian outfit.
But it doesn’t mean there won’t be a proper contest. Here are the exciting clashes that will have an impact on the five-match ODI series that begins in Guwahati on Sunday.
VIRAT KOHLI v JASON HOLDER
Both captains led by example in the Test series and expect more of the same in the limited overs series. Kohli was sensational in England, scoring almost 600 runs and continued his good form in India, scoring a ton and a 45 against the Windies. With no serious threat in the West Indies bowling attack, expect Kohli to be lining up for a hit. Looking to stop him will be Caribbean captain Holder, who made a superb comeback to the Test team in Hyderabad by scoring a fifty and picking up five wickets. Holder has superb temperament and his calming influence with bat and ball will be crucial for his team that is thin on resources.
ROHIT SHARMA v KEMAR ROACH
The West Indies missed the services of their veteran pacer in the Test matches as he had to fly back due to a bereavement in his family. But he will be available for the ODIs and offers control and experience with the new ball, which will be vital against the marauding Rohit Sharma. The opening batsman, along with Shikhar Dhawan, is an absolute beast in Indian pitches and if Roach doesn’t manage to keep Rohit – who is on a high after leading India to the Asia Cup title – quiet then the West Indies will be in for a very long series.
KULDEEP YADAV v MARLON SAMUELS
Samuels holds the entire team together with his experience and superb record in India. He was the star of the show as the Caribbean side tasted success in the 2016 World T20 in India. He can take any bowling apart but left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav is very difficult to hit, especially if the pitch offers even a little bit of assistance. Samuels is the batting mainstay of the team and will need to hold the inning together. But for that, he will get past the guile of Kuldeep and leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.
