WI vs IND | ‘Opportunity to peak and show our talent’: India skipper Shikhar Dhawan’s message to teammates

The Indian cricket team will be back in action, playing against the West Indies in a three-match ODI series starting tomorrow (July 22) at Port of Spain. 

Shikhar Dhawan has been named captain in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

Sharma, along with vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah and former India skipper Virat Kohli, were all rested with the management keeping onus on the youngsters

Ahead of the first ODI, Dhawan spoke to bcci.tv about how the series will be a chance for newcomers to shine and prove their mettle.

Dhawan said, "We will enjoy in the West Indies. The weather there would be a little challenging and different. Boys are well-prepared. Like how Siraj performed today. Not only the opportunity but the preparation that he did behind the scenes. 

That's really important. Everybody will get exposure to pay in West Indies. They have play in IPL too. So, lots of smiles, lots of wins. We will play our best cricket West Indies. It will be a great opportunity to peak there and show our talent."

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Dhawan, the oldest player to captain India in an ODI, will have all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja as his deputy. The 36-year-old Dhawan led India on their tour of Sri Lanka last year.

Jadeja, however, is a doubtful starter, given reports of him battling a slight niggle with his knee.

Indian squad composition

Another notable miss from the ODI series is Rishabh Pant, who has also been rested following a gruelling England tour.

Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan are the two designated wicketkeepers in the 16-member squad. Opener Shubman Gill also found a place in the touring party.

Meanwhile, bowling will rely on the likes of Mohammad Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

Shardul Thakur and Axar Patel can handle the role of an all-rounder if need be.

West Indies, led by Nicholas Pooran, on the other hand, have recalled the experienced Jason Holder after missing him in the Bangladesh series, which they lost 0-3.

READ: WI vs IND | 1st ODI | Match Preview, Key Players, CREX XI