IND vs WI, 1st T20I: Iyer’s India favourites, but Hope's West Indies pose threat

Fresh off a gold medal win at the Asian Games, India begins a five-match T20I series against the West Indies at Ekana Stadium this Tuesday. Shreyas Iyer leads a squad riding a nine-game winning streak, though the team faces a quick turnaround and a need to address defensive lapses after recording 14 misfields in their recent tournament.

Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are slated to open, aiming to improve their recent batting consistency, while Ishan Kishan remains a high-scoring alternative. The West Indies have bolstered their lineup with the additions of Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell, and Akeal Hosein.

Captain Shai Hope will open alongside Kamil Pooran, with the visitors banking on a powerful middle order to challenge the hosts. While rain is possible earlier in the day, the pitch is expected to be clear for play, potentially offering early movement for seamers.

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