IND vs WI: With Tests and ODIs done and dusted, the shift now focuses on the shortest format. Team India is set to take on West Indies in a five-match T20 series starting on August 3 (Thursday). The Men in Blue have been dominant on the tour so far and they will look to continue their winning momentum. On the other hand, the home team will be boosted by the return of their senior players including Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder. On that note, let us take a look at 5 players who might be the top performers in the series.
Also Read: WC squad all but decided, SKY aces Samson as Agarkar offers IND vs IRE hint
1. Sanju Samson
Sanju was given back to back opportunities during the ODI series. While he failed to get going in his first outing, the dasher completed a quickfire fifty in the third ODI. To note, Sanju played his last T20 game in January 2023 against Sri Lanka. Since then, he has to wait for his turn. However, the right-handed batter will try to make a statement with the bat in the T20 series against the Men in Maroon.
2. Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav failed to leave his impression in the ODI format once again. However, the talented batter will look to rectify his mistakes in the 20-over series. To note, Surya played as a finisher during the last two ODIs against the West Indies. However, he is expected to bat up the order during the T20Is. A good outing in the 20-over format might help Surya to fix his spot for Asia Cup slated to start later this month.
3. Axar Patel
Despite playing a total of 40 T20Is for India, Axar Patel has not been able to totally cement his place in the Indian squad. He was also not given a chance in the ODI series. However, the all-rounder is set to get his chance in the T20I series. Axar will want to have a good outing against the Men in Maroon in order to put his name forward for the Asia Cup and World Cup squad.
4. Nicholas Pooran
Former West Indies skipper Nicholas Pooran was not available for ODI series. However, the Southpaw has returned for the T20 games. To note, Pooran recently smashed an unbeaten 137 off just 55 balls in the final match of the MLC 2023. Pooran can be a dangerous customer for team India if he gets going.
5. Shimron Hetmyer
Another left-hander from West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer possess the same attacking instincts as Pooran. However, Hettie failed to make a mark during the ODI series. The left-handed batter played his last T20I game in August 2022 against New Zealand. Making a comeback to the national team, the Southpaw will be itching to perform well in the 20-over fixtures.
