Three Big Questions For India Ahead Of ODI Series Against West Indies

image-lkhyt06uIndia will play 3 ODIs against West Indies [Twitter]

After securing a comprehensive 1-0 win in the Test series, India will be keen to showcase their prowess in the three-match ODI series against West Indies starting this Thursday. The series holds significant importance for team India, as it will help them fine-tune their preparations for the ODI World Cup scheduled on home soil in October-November later this year. 

However, there are some questions ahead of India, which they should address before the first ODI at the iconic Kensington Oval in Barbados. 


The number 4 conundrum

While India have a star-studded top order comprising Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, the unfortunate injuries to Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant has vacated the number four position. However, this is a blessing in disguise for the swashbuckling Suryakumar Yadav to prove himself in 50-over cricket, which he hasn't been able to do so far.


Who will be the third seamer? 

With Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur set to feature in the playing XI, only one seamer's spot will be up for grabs. India have three quality options, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar and Jaydev Unadkat, to pick for that slot. While Unadkat provides them with the left-arm angle, Malik brings express pace to the table. In such a scenario, Mukesh Kumar seems to be left out, with the visitors preferring one between Unadkat and Malik as the third seamer.


Chahal or Kuldeep: Who will India prefer?

There was a time when both Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav were integral parts of the Indian ODI setup. However, with seamers featuring in the playing XI, the men in blue have preferred only one wrist spinner of late. As of now, Kuldeep seems to be the frontrunner to lead India's spin attack in the Caribbean, which means Chahal has to miss the cut.