India have been in fine form against the West Indies in recent weeks, restoring their fortunes after a disappointing tour of South Africa. The West Indies, however, have so far proved unable to build on their impressive series victory over England on home turf and face returning to the Caribbean without a win to their name. Can they snap their losing streak here? Read on for our full India vs West Indies 3rd T20 preview and prediction:
India vs West Indies 3rd T20 Preview and Prediction
Series So Far
India dominated the West Indies in the ODI series, restricting their visitors to less than 200 runs in all three innings as they ran out comfortable series victors. The West Indies were hoping for a response in the first T20, but were unable to manufacture one. They batted first and posted 157 runs on the board. That looked a below-par score on a decent batting surface and India made sure that it was just that, chasing it down with seven balls to spare to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
The West Indies then found themselves unable to really trouble India with the ball in the second T20. They did strike early to remove Ishan Kishan, whilst danger man Rohit Sharma also never really got going, out for 19 off 18 balls. But Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant both scored 50s to take India to 186 from their 20 overs. That proved to beyond the West Indies ability to chase, despite an explosive 68 from just 36 balls from Rovman Powell, as they fell nine runs short of the target.
Expected Teams
Captain Sharma has made it clear that he is reluctant to rotate. The Indian line-up should remain settled as a result, with Sharma opening alongside Kishan. Kohli and Pant will bat at three and four, with Suryakumar Yadav in at five. Venkatesh Iyer’s ability to chip in with overs of fast-medium will be enough for him to keep his place at six, with Harshal Patel in at seven. Deepak Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yuzvendra Chahal will round out the side.
The West Indies are also unlikely to make many changes in the short term. Brandon King has thus far done little to secure his spot in the side long-term, but will likely get another crack here. Kyle Mayers will partner him at the top, with Nicholas Pooran in at three and Powell at four. Captain Kieron Pollard will bat five, with Roston Chase at six and Jason Holder at seven. Akeal Hosein, Odean Shepherd and Romario Smith can all score quickly. Sheldon Cottrell will complete the tourists’ XI.
Prediction
There is enough power in this West Indian batting line-up to take the game away from just about anyone, including India, but they have not looked particularly comfortable in Indian conditions. They have also struggled to contain the Indian batters on the other side of the equation, despite some good spells of bowling. So whilst the West Indies are certainly in with a chance of beating India and avoiding a whitewash, the hosts look the likelier winners.
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