IND vs WI: 2nd ODI Preview – Hosts plot revenge against resurgent visitors

India were rocked by a masterclass from Shimron Hetmyer, as West Indies romped home to a comfortable win in the first ODI in Chennai. The defeat was an eye-opener, exposing many chinks in the Indian armour. Against a fired-up visitors, the hosts will now have a battle on their hands to stay alive in the series. The contest in Visakhapatnam will be a do-or-die encounter for them. It now remains to be seen whether they rise to the challenge or whittle under pressure.

Match Info:

Talking Points:

India’s lack of potency in the bowling department

The Indian bowlers were rendered completely ineffective as the Caribbeans put their foot down on the pedal. The spinners, in particular, were a big disappointment on a surface which seemed to have some assistance on offer. There was a lack of attacking options at Kohli’s disposal, with only three frontline bowlers. The team management’s response to this issue will now be a big talking point. Will we see a change in personnel? Or will India back the same XI?

Can the Windies maintain consistency?

West Indies have rightly earned their reputation as a highly mercurial unit. They can be breathtaking in some games, painstakingly frustrating in the others. The biggest challenge for Pollard’s men now will be to build upon the result in Chepauk and keep up the performance levels. Whether they can succeed in doing so is a different matter altogether.

Numbers to look out for:

Team News:

India

With the lack of penetration in the bowling unit, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal may well get a look-in. Shivam Dube who failed to impress as the fifth bowler and could be sacrificed to add some oomph in the attack. The batting order picks itself and won’t be tampered with.

West Indies

Why fix it if it isn’t broken? That will be the mantra for the West Indies team management. The whole team performed admirably well in Chennai and there won’t be any chopping and changing for the second ODI.