The second ODI between India and West Indies is currently underway at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. It is a great chance for Team India to win the second game and seal the series. The visitors won the first ODI at the same venue with five wickets and 163 balls to spare.
However, one thing that surprised everyone was when Hardik Pandya came for the toss instead of regular captain Rohit Sharma. Later, Hardik confirmed that Virat Kohli was also not part of the team for the second ODI.
Though India won the toss, it became a question for the Indian fans why both experienced duos were not playing in the game. Was it an injury concern or anything else? As seen in the first ODI as well, Virat didn’t come out to bat while Rohit batted at No. 7.
However, the stand-in captain confirmed that the management has decided to give both players the rest because they are playing consistent cricket. Hardik said, “Rohit and Virat have been playing constant cricket, so they are resting in this game. They can be fresh for the third ODI.”
West Indies have won the toss and decided to bowl first. They have also made two changes. Rovman Powell and Dominic Drakes missed out, and Alzarri Joseph and Keacy Carty made it to the playing XI. For India, Sanju Samson has finally gotten a game, while Axar Patel has also gotten his chance. These two have replaced Rohit and Virat in the team.
India has gone with three specialist spinners on the pitch, which is assisting the spinners. With no Virat on the team, we might see Samson at No. 3. Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill will open the innings for India.
India’s Playing XI for the 2nd ODI vs WI: Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya (captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar Umran Malik
