The Men’s International Test Match Series continues with an eagerly awaited clash as India take on the West Indies at the historic Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Scheduled for 10th October, play begins at 5:00 AM UK time, which translates to a 9:30 AM IST start. This red-ball encounter promises to be a gripping contest between India’s formidable home side and a resurgent West Indies team seeking to prove themselves in subcontinental conditions.
Form Guide
India
India continue to dominate Test cricket at home, boasting an exceptional record over the past decade. Their batting unit, anchored by world-class performers, remains solid, while their spin-heavy bowling attack consistently dismantles opposition line-ups. With depth in every department and a fortress-like record in India, the hosts are overwhelming favourites heading into this fixture.
- Unbeaten home record in recent Test series.
- Strong middle order led by experienced batters in fine form.
- Spin duo thriving in home conditions, supported by disciplined pacers.
West Indies
The West Indies enter the series with renewed confidence after a few promising performances in the longer format. While they have shown improvement in recent years, adapting to India’s spinning tracks remains their biggest challenge. Their pace attack provides firepower, but their batting must display resilience against India’s world-class bowlers to stay competitive.
- Improved bowling unit capable of creating early pressure.
- Batting depth still a concern on spin-friendly surfaces.
- Focused on building long partnerships and showing patience.
Key Players
India
- Rohit Sharma – The captain and opener will be pivotal in providing strong starts and leading from the front.
- Virat Kohli – The local favourite in Delhi, renowned for his consistency and hunger for big scores in Tests.
- Ravichandran Ashwin – India’s premier spinner, whose control and variations make him lethal in home conditions.
West Indies
- Kraigg Brathwaite – The skipper and opening batter must anchor the innings and withstand India’s new-ball threat.
- Jason Holder – The experienced all-rounder adds stability and offers crucial breakthroughs with the ball.
- Alzarri Joseph – The quick bowler’s pace and aggression can trouble India’s top order, even on slower pitches.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Arun Jaitley Stadium surface is expected to offer early assistance for seamers before turning into a spinner’s paradise as the match progresses. Batting will become challenging from Day 3 onward, with spinners likely to dominate. The weather forecast suggests warm and dry conditions throughout the five days, ensuring uninterrupted play and ideal conditions for Test cricket.
India vs West Indies – Prediction
The Indian team will look to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for big runs, while Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to dominate with the ball. The West Indies will rely on Kraigg Brathwaite and Jason Holder for stability, but their inexperience against quality spin could be exposed. India are firm favourites to win comfortably in Delhi.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Ravichandran Ashwin – A must-pick spinner capable of taking multiple wickets in both innings.
- Virat Kohli – A proven match-winner and reliable fantasy captain option at his home ground.
- Jason Holder – Offers consistent points with his all-round abilities and experience.
