WI v IND, 3rd ODI: Windies Opt to Bowl as India Aim to Avoid Rare Series Upset

Trinidad: The West Indies-India ODI series has been an intense battle so far, with both teams securing one win each. The third ODI, scheduled for August 1st at Trinidad, promises to be a thrilling decider as the series stands level at 1-1.

In the second ODI, West Indies made a strong comeback after losing the first game. India, batting first, struggled to post a competitive total, managing only 181 runs before being bowled out. Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill contributed with 55 and 34 runs, respectively, while Gudakesh Motie and Romario Shepherd took 3 wickets each for West Indies. However, the West Indies batting lineup delivered, with Shai Hope’s unbeaten 63 and Keacy Carty’s 48 leading them to a comfortable 6-wicket victory. Shardul Thakur was the standout bowler for India, taking 3 wickets.

The teams’ head-to-head record indicates a closely contested history, with India securing 71 wins and West Indies close behind with 64 wins.

As the teams gear up for the crucial third ODI, the weather at Trinidad is expected to be favourable for cricket, with a temperature of 28°C, 83% humidity, and a wind speed of 21 km/hr. There is a slight chance of precipitation at 20%.

The pitch at the Brian Lara Stadium is likely to offer a fair balance between bat and ball. Spinners may play a vital role during the middle overs, while pacers are expected to have an impact throughout the game. The average first-innings score on this pitch is 220 runs, and historically, teams batting second have had a winning percentage of 60 at this ground.

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