Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back in India's T20I playing XI after four years, and the veteran pacer could hardly have asked for a more familiar setting for his return. The M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he made his T20I debut, welcomed the Royal Challengers Bengaluru favourite with a roar as he returned to the Indian playing XI for the rain-hit fifth T20I against West Indies on Saturday.
With persistent rain disrupting proceedings, the series decider has been reduced to a nine-over-per-side contest. With the five-match series locked at 2-2, the shortened encounter leaves little room for error, with the winner set to clinch the series.
Bhuvneshwar's inclusion comes after Arshdeep Singh's participation was in doubt following an injury sustained during India's chase in the fourth T20I. The veteran seamer had recently returned to India's international plans after being named in the T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, and has now been drafted into the playing XI for the series decider.
West Indies captain
Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing the conditions and his team's batting depth as key factors behind the decision.
Bhuvneshwar, Shivam Dube Return to India's Playing XI
India captain
Shreyas Iyer confirmed two changes to the side, with Shivam Dube and Bhuvneshwar coming into the playing XI.
“Quick turnaround. The wicket looks pretty good. We just have to be aggressive, not get pressed too much. It's important that we seize the game. Important to put the best foot forward.
They have a good array of shots, they have been playing solid and power-packed cricket. We need to think about our strengths as well. Shivam Dube and Bhuvi come in for us, two changes,” Iyer said at the toss.
Shai Hope Elects to Bowl First
West Indies skipper Shai Hope opted to field first, believing his side would benefit from chasing in the shortened contest.
“We are going to bowl first. Rain around, but it's a good pitch. That gives us the best chance to chase it. We tend to have a lot of batters. Focus is on bowling, it's a shortened game. I just think we finish the series strong. Guys are looking forward to it,” Hope said.
India vs West Indies 5th T20I: Playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh.
West Indies: Shai Hope (c/wk), Jewel Andrew, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Keemo Paul, Shamar Springer, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph.