India aim to level series, West Indies look to surprise Virat Kohli’s side

The ODI series between India and West Indies has proven to be a competitive one contrary to expectations. While India have bossed the opposition in their home conditions, the West Indies have shown their resilience and have not been bogged down.

Following a heavy loss in the first ODI in Guwahati, West Indies bounced back in style with a tie in Vizag and a magnificent win in Pune. However, their momentum and confidence would have taken a serious hit with a huge loss in the Mumbai ODI. Jason Holder’s side will be hoping to bounce back and end the series on a high at Thiruvananthapuram, the venue which will make its ODI debut.

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India dominant

When Australia dominated in the 70s, it was primarily due to the fast bowling duo of Dennis Lilllee and Jeff Thomson.  There was a saying those days that “If Lillee don’t get you, Thommo will.” In 2018, this can be twisted for the Indian team thanks to the batsmen.

After three consecutive centuries, Virat Kohli was out cheaply. However, Rohit Sharma blasted the West Indies into submission with a record seventh-score of 150+. In the modern era, West Indies will be thinking, “If Kohli don’t get you, Rohit will.” In addition to Rohit’s magnificent batting, India will be incredibly happy with Ambati Rayudu’s maturity and calmness at No.4.

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However, there are some question marks with regards to batting. MS Dhoni, who needs one run to reach 10,000 runs for India as wicketkeeper, continues to struggle. With the ball, India were boosted by the performance of Khaleel Ahmed, who picked up 3/13. The youngster’s performance will give India additional depth in the bowling.

West Indies seek inspiration

Holder’s side have performed well in patches but their over reliance on Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer is evident. In Mumbai, once those two batsmen departed cheaply, the rest of the batting folded without any resistance.

The bowling has also struggled, having conceded three 300+ totals in four games. With the bowlers struggling for penetration and consistency, they are in danger of giving away over 300 in the final ODI as well.