IND vs WI: India’s predicted strongest XI for 1st ODI on September 27
India will host West Indies in the opening match of a three‑game ODI series in India on September 27, and this piece outlines a predicted strongest playing XI for the first ODI.
The West Indies tour of India comprises three ODIs, with India aiming to extend their strong record against the visitors in this format. Having lost the recent ODI series to England, India view the series as an opportunity to regain rhythm ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. Several regulars are unavailable because of Asian Games 2026 commitments, creating chances for younger players to stake claims for World Cup selection.
Rohit Sharma is expected to open the innings after he slammed a terrific century in the last ODI against England. Shubman Gill, the captain of the Indian ODI team, has been described as sensational in the format and looked in sensational touch during the England series. Virat Kohli will return for the IND vs WI series; he looked in sublime form in the last ODI series against England and is set to play a key role while also eyeing several milestones.
In the middle order, Ruturaj Gaikwad is projected to occupy the number four slot in Shreyas Iyer’s absence; although a top‑order batter, India have used him in the middle overs previously and he hit a century in the last series he played. KL Rahul has reportedly cemented his place at No. 5 and has embraced finishing and anchoring roles for the team, stepping up as required to close matches.
Axar Patel’s absence paves the way for Ravindra Jadeja’s return to the ODI setup after being largely sidelined from the format, with selectors granting him another opportunity. Nitish Kumar Reddy, described as a batting all‑rounder, has worked on his bowling, clocks above 135kmph and has been picking crucial wickets; he was initially part of the Asian Games 2026 squad but was withdrawn to fill Hardik Pandya’s role in the ODI side.
There is a possibility India hand a debut to Auqib Nabi in the first ODI; Gautam Gambhir is noted as a huge fan of bowlers who can bat, and Nabi is described as a handy batter down the order who bowls with impeccable lines and lengths. Kuldeep Yadav, after a staggering county campaign, is expected to lead the spin attack; he had looked out of touch in recent series but has regained confidence and is viewed as a key spinner across the three games.
The pace department could feature Gurnoor Brar, whose height and pace have troubled opposition batters and who might pip Prasidh Krishna as the second pacer despite being a little expensive owing to his wicket‑taking ability. Mohammed Siraj returns to ODI colours and is set to spearhead the pace attack; he has been a regular in the Test side and will be relied upon as the most senior pace option in the ODI XI.
The first ODI is scheduled for September 27, and the three‑match series will form part of India’s preparations for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.