India face West Indies in the opening match of a three-match ODI series at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, on Sunday, September 27, 2026. There are certain questions about the middle-order composition and seam-bowling department as the team balances experience with emerging talent in a critical series.
Rohit Sharma returns after a two-month absence from international cricket, having last featured at Lord’s against England where he scored a century. Shubman Gill captains the side, while KL Rahul serves as vice-captain for the series. Gill has established himself as India’s leading run-scorer in ODIs during 2026, making him a cornerstone of the batting lineup.
Top order: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Virat Kohli
Rohit Sharma opens the innings alongside captain Shubman Gill, with Virat Kohli positioned at number three. Kohli brings strong form in 2026 with a notable ODI record against West Indies. Gill’s consistency throughout the year has made him indispensable to India’s ODI plans, and his captaincy adds another dimension to the team’s leadership structure. Rohit will be high on confidence after his stellar century in the third ODI against England at Lord’s.
