Jaydev Unadkat last played an ODI against West Indies in Kochi in 2013
Jaydev Unadkat: IND vs WI – The wait will likely be over for Jaydev Unadkat as he is set to play his 1st ODI after nine years. Mohammed Siraj, who was expected to lead the pace attack during IND vs WI ODI series, has been rested from the squad. There is no Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah too. Unadkat might be included to partner along with Shardul Thakur in the first ODI against West Indies.
Unadkat last played ODI against West Indies in 2013, and after a long wait, the left-arm pacer has a golden chance to play his eighth ODI. The Saurashtra pacer is the only left-hand option available in the Indian team on the Windies tour. Apart from Unadkat, Rohit Sharma has Mukesh Kumar, Umran Malik, Thakur, and Hardik Pandya as options for the third seamer.
Jaydev Unadkat: Toss up between Unadkat, Umran Malik, &Mukesh Kumar for the first ODI against West Indies
With Shardul Thakur almost certain to play the first ODI, it will be a toss-up between Unadkat, Umran Malik, and Mukesh Kumar for the second seamer. Without Siraj, Thakur is the most experienced pacer, and he offers batting skills as well. Umran last played ODI during the New Zealand series in January. Prior to that, the fast bowler had a good ODI series against Bangladesh.
Malik’s extra pace is looked at as an asset to the team. The 24-year-old can consistently clock 145kmph. Meanwhile, Mukesh impressed in his debut Test match against West Indies, picking three wickets. The 29-year-old’s accurate line and lengths forced West Indies to play defensive cricket. Mukesh is yet to play ODI for India. It remains to be seen if Rohit persists with him or gives him a chance to Unadkat.
