Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
India and West Indies will face each other in the first ODI of the three-match series on Sunday, September 27, at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Shubman Gill will lead India, while Shai Hope will captain the West Indies. The series is significant for India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The biggest attraction ahead of the opening match is the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both senior players are currently active internationally only in the ODI format, making their return particularly significant for fans and cricket experts.
Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal Could Open
There are several possible combinations for India’s top order. One prominent prediction has Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the innings, with captain Shubman Gill coming in at No. 3 and Virat Kohli at No. 4.
Another possible combination could see Gill open alongside Rohit, with Kohli following them. Ruturaj Gaikwad also provides the team with another strong batting option.
KL Rahul is expected to handle wicketkeeping duties, while Dhruv Jurel is another option available in the squad. Both wicketkeepers are part of India’s official ODI squad.
Nitish Reddy and Jadeja Could Provide Balance
Nitish Kumar Reddy has returned from injury and adds an all-round option to the side. Ravindra Jadeja’s presence further strengthens India’s batting and spin-bowling depth.
In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be India’s main specialist spin option. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are strong contenders in the pace attack, while Gurnoor Brar and Auqib Nabi provide additional options. Naman Dhir is also in contention after receiving his maiden ODI call-up.
Possible Playing XI
Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill (Captain), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.
This is a predicted Playing XI, not the confirmed team. The final XI depends on the toss, pitch conditions and the team’s tactical decision. A different combination is also possible, particularly in the top order.
All Eyes on Rohit and Kohli
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will attract the most attention as they return to ODI cricket. Their experience could be particularly valuable as India build towards the 2027 World Cup. At the same time, the series gives the team an opportunity to assess younger players and develop the right combination for the future.
The first ODI therefore represents more than just the opening match of the series. For India, it is an opportunity to test combinations, integrate experienced players with emerging talent and strengthen preparations for the 2027 World Cup. The match is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM IST in Thiruvananthapuram.
