India enters the second ODI at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati with significant momentum, holding a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Following a comprehensive eight-wicket victory in the series opener, the hosts look to seal the series against a West Indies side grappling with the loss of their top performer from the previous game.
While India’s top order looked clinical in the chase at Trivandrum, the West Indies face a selection headache. Justin Greaves, who struck a century in the first match, has been ruled out of this fixture due to a calf injury. However, the visitors will be bolstered by the return of Sherfane Rutherford to the squad.
Match Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI |
| Series | West Indies tour of India 2026 |
| Date | Wednesday, September 30, 2026 |
| Venue | Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati |
| Time | 2:00 PM IST |
Team News & Probable XIs
India
India is unlikely to tinker with a winning combination. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli showed excellent rhythm in the first ODI, and the bowling unit, led by Kuldeep Yadav’s four-wicket haul, effectively contained the Caribbean hitters. The pace attack of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna provides a balanced threat on what is expected to be a fast track.
Probable XI: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar.
West Indies
The visitors must find a replacement for the injured Justin Greaves. John Campbell is the most likely candidate to step into the top order. Sherfane Rutherford has rejoined the squad and is available for selection, potentially adding much-needed power to the middle order. The bowling unit will rely on Alzarri Joseph and Gudakesh Motie to find breakthroughs early.
Probable XI: John Campbell, Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (WK), Nicholas Pooran, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Oshane Thomas.
Recent Form
India: W
West Indies: L
India’s victory in the first ODI was dominant, chasing down 296 with 50 balls to spare. West Indies will be looking to improve their middle-order consistency after failing to defend a competitive total.
Pitch & Conditions
The Barsapara Cricket Stadium is known for its batting-friendly nature. Historically, the surface offers excellent value for stroke play with short boundaries and a fast outfield. India has a perfect record at this venue, winning both previous ODIs played here. While pacers may find some early movement, spinners often find grip as the match progresses. Chasing has traditionally been the preferred option here.
Weather Alert: There is a 78% chance of afternoon thunderstorms in Guwahati. High humidity and rain are likely to impact the duration of the match.
Key Players / Match-ups
- Shubman Gill vs Alzarri Joseph: Gill is in peak form and thrives on batting-friendly decks. Joseph’s extra pace will be West Indies’ best chance to disrupt the Indian opener early.
- Kuldeep Yadav vs WI Middle Order: After taking four wickets in the opener, Kuldeep remains the primary threat. His ability to extract turn in the middle overs could be the deciding factor.
- Sherfane Rutherford: Returning to the side, his ability to clear the ropes and provide utility overs makes him a vital inclusion, though his lack of recent match time remains a variable.
Suggested Fantasy Cricket XI
Based on current form and venue history, here is a potential fantasy combination:
- Wicketkeepers: Shai Hope (VC), Nicholas Pooran
- Batters: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford
- Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj
Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today?
India holds the stronger case to win the second ODI and clinch the series in Guwahati. The hosts possess a significant psychological edge at this venue and a more settled top-order rotation. The absence of Justin Greaves, their most consistent performer from the series opener, is a major blow for the West Indies. While the return of Sherfane Rutherford adds middle-order depth, India’s superior spin department and the clinical form of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli make them the heavy favorites to take a 2-0 lead.
Note: Ensure you check the confirmed playing XI and the toss outcome before finalizing your fantasy selections, as weather conditions in Guwahati may influence final lineups.
