In a highly anticipated start to the five-match T20 International series, India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium and elected to field first against West Indies.
The decision sets the stage for a thrilling encounter under the lights, with the dew factor often playing a significant role in evening matches at this venue.
This opening T20I marks a significant moment for young Indian all-rounder Naman Dhir, who makes his T20I debut for the Men in Blue today. Dhir, 26, previously made his ODI debut against West Indies on September 27, 2026, and will be looking to make an immediate impact in the shortest format. Adding strength to India’s bowling attack, left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, 31, returns to the T20I side, having last played a T20I in February against Pakistan at the T20 World Cup.
Squads and Key Players
India, fresh from their Asian Games 2026 gold medal triumph and a 2-1 ODI series win against the West Indies, come into this series with strong momentum. Captain Shreyas Iyer will lead the side, with Tilak Varma named as his deputy. Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the T20I series, allowing opportunities for younger pacers like Mayank Yadav.
West Indies, led by Shai Hope, feature a blend of experienced specialists and new faces in their T20I squad. The visiting team has bolstered its lineup with the inclusion of Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, and Akeal Hosein. Kamil Pooran is expected to open alongside Captain Hope, providing significant firepower at the top.
Confirmed Playing XI (India):
India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer(c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Mayank Yadav .
Confirmed Playing XI (West Indies):
West Indies (Playing XI): Shai Hope(w/c), Kamil Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Springer, Shamar Joseph
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
India holds a superior head-to-head record against West Indies in T20Is, having won 20 out of 31 matches played between the two nations, with one match ending in no result. India’s recent form is exceptional, boasting nine consecutive T20I victories coming into this series. The Ekana Cricket Stadium pitch typically offers assistance to bowlers, particularly pacers, although it has shown a tendency to flatten out in the later stages of matches. With rain forecast earlier in the day but clear conditions expected for match hours, any residual moisture could aid the seamers in the initial overs. The toss outcome, with India opting to bowl, suggests a strategy to exploit early conditions and chase a target under lights, where the dew factor often makes batting easier.
As the series gets underway, both teams will be keen to start with a victory, aiming to gain an early advantage in what promises to be an exciting five-match contest.