Cricket News: Three batters to look forward to in India's ODI series against West Indies

This series is the best opportunity for the young players to show the value they can bring to the team for big tournaments like the World Cup. With five big names - Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami missing from this tour, for three players, it's going to be one of the most critical series of their careers.

Shreyas Iyer

The potential team India captain has an on-off status in the team squad, but now his problem against the short-pitch ball is not hidden from anyone. He generally bats at number 4, and with Suryakumar Yadav in the line, he needs to show that he has worked on his problem and can deliver India what it needs during the time.

"What I don't like is that there is no secret about Shreyas Iyer now. He has real problems with the short ball," said New Zealand commentator Scott Styris.

Deepak Hooda

He got into the limelight in T20I international cricket with his Ireland series performance which he continued against England also. He delivered a great strength to the team's middle order, and India will look to keep giving him opportunities to shine and prepare him for the big tournament. The benefit he brings as another spin bowling option is why India will look to back him up this series heavily.

"I wish to see more of Deepak Hooda, because he has shown a lot of promise. He has overcome a lot of hurdles in domestic cricket and made his place in the Indian team. I am curious to see how he performs." said Pragyan Ojha

Ruturaj Gaikwad

The right-handed opener has already done well in the last domestic 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 603 runs in five innings. His ODI debut will greatly assist India in creating a solid left and right-hand opening combination along with Captain Shikhar Dhawan. 

He is yet to show impactful performance in international cricket. He has only 135 runs from nine T20I games at an average of 16.9. With an outstanding record in the 50-over format in domestic cricket, he'll probably be a player who receives his maiden ODI cap and plays alongside Shikhar Dhawan. 

"I think Ruturaj should make his ODI debut and open with Shikhar in the WI series. Ruturaj scored 4 tons in 5 inns in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, deserves a look in. Also, left-right combo stays," said Wasim Jaffer.