(Cricket news) After a disappointing 3-0 whitewash in the ODI series, India begin the white ball series at home against the West Indies. The Windies just defeated England 3-2 in a T20I series while they lost 2-1 in their last ODI series against Ireland. India desperately needs this victory but the Covid outbreak will make it more difficult. Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shikhar Dhawan have been tested positive along with a few members of the staff and stand by player Navdeep Saini. Mayank Agarwal and Ishan Kishan who were originally not a part of the squad were added.

India's Possible Playing XI:
Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Surya Kumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Yuzvendra Chahal.

The Covid outbreak leaves India short of options especially in the middle order. Despite the addition of Agarwal, Rohit Sharma confirmed in a press conference that Ishan Kishan will open the batting. Washington Sundar should bring the team much needed balance. Deepak Hooda will act as a very handy 6th bowling option. Kuldeep Yadav might have to wait a while for his return to the side. Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Sharudl Thakur complete the bench.

West Indies possible playing XI:
Shai Hope(wk), Brandon King, Shamarah Brooks, Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard(c), Jason Holder, Fabian Allen, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Alzarri Joseph, Akeal Hossein 

Jason Holder will have a very important role to play with both bat and ball. West Indies will try a new opening combination this series as Justin Greaves who opened against Ireland is not in the squad. The biggest advantage West Indies have is the amount of proper All-rounders they have. 

Weather and Pitch report:
In the infamous Test matches against England that were played in Motera stadium, the pitch was a rank turner. This time around it might not turn as much but it will turn for sure. It will be a clear sunny day with the weather being on the cooler side which makes it excellent conditions to play cricket. 

The home advantage makes India favourites but the Windies cannot be taken lightly. The Indian side have to win this series and the pressure is now on Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma. The visitors will definitely fancy their chances of a victory considering that India is neither at full strength nor in good form.
 

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