India vs Windies1st T20I: Three players to watch out for

After a horrendous performance in the Tests and ODIs (barring two) Windies find themselves at the best position to challenge India. The visitors are the world champions in the T20 and their players seem to be born to play this format.

Windies might be playing without their key players but they still have enough firepower to win the day in the shortest format of the game. And that’s why a Kohli-less India will have to deliver their best to win against Windies. And remember after a long time, there won’t be the calming support of MS Dhoni behind the stumps.

Amidst these conditions, these three players will be the ones to watch out for on June 04.

3.  Lokesh Rahul-

A lot of spark and very little fire. This is Rahul’s international career in a nutshell. He has the class, he has the aesthetics, he has the backing of the team management but what he doesn’t have is runs behind him.

Rahul needs some eye-catching performances to storm into India’s ODI team and this could be his best bet. He will be batting at number three, behind a prolific opening pair which should make his life a bit easier.

Remember he has two centuries in T20I, a very rare feat and that’s what makes him dangerous.

“India has a lot to think about. I still believe Lokesh Rahul shouldn’t be sitting out. The middle-order desperately needs to be given a good look. The selectors are leaving it too late” Dada in TOI

— Gooner अन्ना (@_hxrxh) October 29, 2018

2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar-

In spite of the series win, Bhuvneshwar Kumar still had an ordinary series. Just took 3 wickets at an average of 37 with an economy rate of 5.84. His year to date record is 14 matches 11 wickets ave 48.81, SR 55, econ 5.31. #INDvWI #INDvsWI #Cricket #BCCI

— Giri Subramanian (Off Work) (@giri26) November 1, 2018

If a team is to be picked based on ability to swing the ball, Bhuvneshwar’s will be the first name. But like Rahul, he too is lacking numbers behind him. He is India’s front-line bowler across formats but is going through a rough patch in 2018.

With the all-important Australia series in sight, India needs him to perform well.

1. Krunal Pandya-

On the eve of the match, #KrunalPandya had a lengthy batting session at the nets and also bowled his orthodox left-arm spin under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Bharat Arun.#INDvWIhttps://t.co/tjJvetDCA6

— Firstpost Sports (@FirstpostSports) November 3, 2018

The all-rounder is set to make his debut and all eyes will be on him. His left-arm spin will be challenged by Windies’ power hitting but the more important question is- Can he bring the balance in the team which selectors and the captain are desperately searching for?

Also read: Yet another Windies player ruled out of T20Is against India

Not to forget Krunal is replacing his brother Hardik who when fit will walk into the team. Hence, Krunal’s chances are limited and he will have to come good as early as possible.