๐ ๐ซ๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ ๐๐
India
West Indies
The white-ball excitement of the Asia Cup is barely behind us, and the attention now swings back to the traditional format. India is gearing up to face the West Indies in a two-match Test series that gets underway on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The second Test will follow at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi from October 10-14, with both matches starting at 9:30 AM IST.
This isnโt just another bilateral contest; itโs an important leg of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship. India, currently placed third on the table, will be eager to tighten their grip on a top-two spot, while the West Indies, sitting sixth, is still hunting for its first points in this cycle. The series presents a chance for Rohit Sharmaโs men to build momentum in home conditions, while Kraigg Brathwaiteโs side will aim to spring a surprise and keep their campaign alive.
With the stakes high and Test cricket returning to centre stage, the battle between India and West Indies promises an intriguing clash of styles and intent.
On a helpful Ahmedabad pitch, Bumrahโs pace and movement could be decisive.
The betting tip is...
Top Bowler - Jasprit Bumrah
62 %
38 %
IndiaWest IndiesIndia head into the two-match Test series with a squad that blends youth and experience under the leadership of Shubman Gill. The batting unit has a fresh look with Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, and Devdutt Padikkal all in the mix to support the skipper. Behind the stumps, Dhruv Jurel is expected to take charge as the primary wicketkeeper, with N. Jagadeesan also named as backup.
In the all-round department, Ravindra Jadeja will serve as vice-captain and remains central to both batting depth and spin options. Washington Sundar and Axar Patel add further balance with their ability to contribute in multiple roles. Nitish Kumar Reddyโs inclusion strengthens the middle order and provides another seam-bowling option.
The pace attack looks formidable with Jasprit Bumrah leading the line alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Kuldeep Yadav rounds off the squad, offering wrist-spin variety on turning tracks.
Overall, the squad reflects Indiaโs intent to back emerging talent while maintaining a strong core for this crucial World Test Championship assignment.
Predicted Lineup: Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav.
West Indies arrive in India with Roston Chase taking over the captaincy, leading a squad that blends experienced campaigners with emerging names. At the top, Tagenarine Chanderpaul and John Campbell will be expected to lay a solid platform, while Alick Athanaze, Kevlon Anderson, and Brandon King add youthful energy to the batting order. Shai Hopeโs presence provides much-needed stability and experience in the middle.
The wicketkeeping duties are set to be shared between Tevin Imlach and Hope if required, giving the side some flexibility. In the bowling department, Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph spearhead the pace attack, backed by Jayden Seales and Anderson Phillip, who bring both pace and consistency. Left-arm options Jomel Warrican and Khary Pierre add depth to the spin department, crucial for Indian conditions.
All-rounders like Chase himself and Justin Greaves provide balance, ensuring the team has multiple avenues to challenge India.
Though the West Indies sit sixth in the World Test Championship standings, this squad has the blend of flair and grit needed to test the hosts on their home turf.
Predicted Lineup: Tagenarine Chanderpaul, John Campbell, Alick Athanaze, Shai Hope, Roston Chase (C), Brandon King, Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach (WK), Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jomel Warrican.
India looks strong at home with a balanced mix of seasoned players and exciting youngsters, and their spin depth could prove decisive.
West Indies have firepower in their pace attack and a few reliable batsmen, but their inconsistency in subcontinent conditions tilts the contest heavily in Indiaโs favour. Expect the hosts to dominate the series and secure valuable World Test Championship points.
