WI vs IND, 1st Test Preview: New-look India face formidable hosts West Indies as test transition begins

WI vs IND, 1st Test Preview: Both teams are set to feature a number of new faces in the series.

Led by Rohit Sharma, Team India are all set to represent their country once again as they gear up to face the West Indies in the first Test series of the World Test Championship cycle from 2023 to 2025. The first test match of this series is scheduled to commence on July 12th and will be held at Windsor Park in Roseau, Dominica.

Following their loss in the final of the previous WTC cycle, Team India have made the decision to initiate a transitional phase. With prominent players approaching the latter stages of their careers, the upcoming Windies tour will witness the emergence of new talents such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan, and Mukesh Kumar, who will establish themselves as key contributors to the Test squad.

On the other hand, The West Indies are presently facing a notable decline in all forms of cricket, with their failure to qualify for the World Cup 2023 marking one of their most difficult periods.

WI vs IND: Pitch Report

Over the years, the pitches at Windsor Park have been known to resemble traditional Test wickets. On the first day, the conditions tend to favor the faster bowlers, providing them with assistance. As the match progresses to days 2 and 3, the pitch becomes easier to bat on. However, as the wicket starts to wear out, spinners come into play during the final two days of the Test.

WI vs IND: Team News

Under the leadership of Kraigg Brathwaite, the West Indies team will be captained by him. Additionally, all players from the West Indies squad are eligible and ready for selection.

In the Indian team, there is high anticipation for Yashasvi Jaiswal to make his debut in the first Test against West Indies. It is likely that he will join Rohit Sharma as the opening batsman. Furthermore, Ishan Kishan is expected to make his Test debut and take up the role of wicketkeeper for the team. Additionally, there is a possibility that Mukesh Kumar may also make his debut in the upcoming match.

WI vs IND: Head To Head

Matches – 98

West Indies – 30

India – 22

Draws – 46

WI vs IND: Players to watch out for:

West Indies: Tagenarine Chanderpaul

Tagenarine Chanderpaul emerges as the player to watch out for against India, as he has made an impressive start to his international test career. With 453 runs in 6 matches at an average of 45.30 and a highest score of 207*, Chanderpaul has showcased his batting prowess. His impressive performances make him a key player to keep an eye on during the upcoming matches against India.

India: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli emerges as the player to watch in the Indian team. Although his performance in the WTC final against Australia may not have met expectations, his extensive experience solidifies his integral role within the team. Renowned for his competitive and combative mindset, Kohli's presence significantly enhances the squad, and his comeback is eagerly awaited.

WI vs IND: Probable Playing XIs 

West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Raymon Reifer, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jermaine Blackwood, Alick Athanaze, Joshua Da Silva (wk), Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kemar Roach, Shannon Gabriel.

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar.

WI vs IND: Match facts:

Shubman Gill is just 79 runs away from reaching 1000 runs in Test Cricket.

Virat Kohli needs only 21 more runs to achieve the milestone of 8500 runs in Test Cricket.

Rohit Sharma is just 63 runs away from reaching 3500 runs in Test Cricket.

Tagenarine Chanderpaul needs only 47 more runs to reach 500 runs in Test Cricket.

WI vs IND: Live Broadcasting

India: DD Sports (TV) | FanCode and JioCinema (Live Streaming)

West Indies: RUSH SPORTS