The West Indies had shocked the Indian team in the first ODI as they won convincingly by eight wickets. Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope scored fine centuries to help their side take a 1-0 lead in the series. Hetmyer was at his absolute best as he scored a blistering knock of 139 runs from 106 balls with the help of 11 fours and seven sixes.
Furthermore, Shai Hope played the anchor’s role in the run-chase. Hope was able to hold the one end up and scored a fine knock of 102 from 151 balls. Hetmyer and Hope added 218 runs for the second wicket alliance.
It will be a do or die match for India.
The Indian bowlers had an off day and they would like to pull up their socks in a do or die match. Consequently, India will like to strengthen their bowling unit as they might look to bring in Yuzvendra Chahal.
Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had a rare off day in the first match. However, there were some positives as out-of-form Rishabh Pant was able to roar back into form. The southpaw batsman got off to a cautious start when India was looking to rebuild the innings. Subsequently, he changed gears to score 71 runs from 69 balls.
On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer has grabbed his opportunity while batting at number four as he scored 70 runs. However, India’s lower order could not add the finishing touches. The hosts scored only 70 runs in the final ten overs and thus could not finish on a high.
Meanwhile, Sheldon Cottrell was right on the money with his bowling. The southpaw pacer scalped two wickets and bowled three maidens. The visitors were brilliant with the ball in the first 10 overs as they took three early wickets to push the hosts on the backfoot.
Consequently, India will like to come up with a better performance in a do-or-die clash.
Match Prediction: West Indies will have the momentum on their side after convincingly winning the first match. Hence, India will look to pull up their socks to make a comeback in the series. Despite the loss in the opener, India should once again start as favorites.