West Indies predicted playing XI for 1st T20I vs India

West Indies will aim to begin their five-match T20I series against India on a strong note when the two teams meet in the first game. The Caribbean side has a good mix of experienced campaigners and players who have recently made an impact in international cricket. Shai Hope is expected to take charge as captain and wicketkeeper, while the batting lineup has several players capable of scoring quickly in the powerplay and middle overs.

The likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford bring plenty of T20 experience, while Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd provide valuable all-round options.

Here is West Indies' predicted playing XI for 1st T20I vs India:

Top-order: Shai Hope (C) (WK), Amir Jangoo, Shimron Hetmyer

Shai Hope is expected to open the innings and lead the side from the front. The right-hander comes into the T20I series after an excellent ODI series against India, where he scored 278 runs in three matches. His unbeaten 162 in the third ODI was one of the highlights of the series and showed his ability to bat deep and control an innings.

Amir Jangoo also enters the series with plenty of confidence after scoring 239 runs in the three ODIs, including a century. He could partner Hope at the top and provide an attacking option during the powerplay. Shimron Hetmyer is likely to follow them and adds considerable experience to the top order. His ability to attack both pace and spin makes him a dangerous batter in T20 cricket.