While the hosts’ struggles could be attributed to administrative and monetary constraints, allied to a shortage of suitably talented and driven players, India has been consistently underwhelming at big-ticket events for a decade now despite the financial might and administrative resources at the BCCI’s disposal, and the world’s richest talent pool in the game, which regularly keeps throwing up prodigies. (AP/ICC)
India is set to face West Indies in the 1st Test, and the match promises to be an exciting encounter between two talented squads. While the hosts have faced challenges due to administrative and monetary constraints, India’s underperformance in major events despite their financial strength and talent pool raises concerns. Both teams have named their squads for the much-anticipated match.
West Indies Squad:
Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Jermaine Blackwood, Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Joshua Da Silva (w), Rahkeem Cornwall, Jason Holder, Raymon Reifer, Kirk McKenzie, Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Shannon Gabriel, Jomel Warrican
India Squad:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Srikar Bharat (w), Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Mukesh Kumar, Mohammed Siraj, Jaydev Unadkat
West Indies vs India: Ashwin’s Impact on Day 1
Ravichandran Ashwin’s five-wicket haul on Day 1 at Windsor Park showcased his exceptional skills. After being excluded from the World Test Championship final, Ashwin had a lot to prove. While it is unfair to assume that his presence would have changed the outcome of the match against England, Ashwin demonstrated his ability to make a positive impact on any bowling attack.
The conditions in Dominica were favorable for spinners, and Ashwin and his spin partner Ravindra Jadeja took advantage of it. With eight wickets between them, they bundled out the West Indies for just 150 runs in under 65 overs. Their performance highlighted the effectiveness of their skills on a dry surface.
To read more about Ashwin’s impressive performance, click here.
