Indian captain Shikhar Dhawan is all set to lead the team in the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies, with the first ODI to take place in Trinidad on Friday. Dhawan feels the weather will be challenging as the temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees celsius but he added that the boys are prepared and they are looking forward to giving their best in the series.
Dhawan had last led a second-string India team on the tour of Sri Lanka in 2021 and he will once again take the job in the absence of Rohit Sharma, who has been rested for the ODI series.
The left-hander had recently returned to the team in England ODIs after a long time. But the southpaw didn’t have the best of series as he could only manage 41 runs in three matches at an average of 21.50. Dhawan did look a bit rusty and he will be determined to prove his battle against the Windies. Thus, the veteran will aim to lead from the front.
“Of course, we’ll enjoy the West Indies tour. The weather over will be a bit challenging and a little more difficult. But the boys are well prepared like Siraj did today (on Sunday at Old Trafford). He wasn’t just waiting for the opportunity but what matters the most is the preparation behind the curtains,” Dhawan said.
Meanwhile, regular players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant have been rested from the ODI series and Dhawan reckons it will be a great opportunity for the young lads to grab their chances in the absence of these players.
“These guys visiting the West Indies are obviously young and mature as well. At the same time, they will be getting exposure to playing in the Caribbean and have played in the IPL as well. So, with that entire experience, and youthfulness, I guess, we’ll have a great series.
“We won in England and West Indies is a great opportunity to peak over there and show our talent,” he added.
The first ODI between India and West Indies will be played on Friday at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain in Trinidad.
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