Shocking defeat against WI rings alarm bells before world cup. Is Indian team experimenting too much?

During the first ODI, skipper Rohit Sharma batted at No. 7, a position he hasn’t occupied since 2011. Former captain Virat Kohli didn’t bat at all. In the second ODI, both Rohit and Virat were rested, and all-rounder Axar Patel surprisingly walked in at No. 4.

While the intention was to try out new players ahead of the ODI World Cup against a weaker West Indies team that hasn’t even qualified for the World Cup, critics question why the star duo was picked for the ODI series in the Caribbean in the first place. Additionally, experimenting extensively with the batting line-up so close to the upcoming ODI World Cup in India (in October/November) is being debated.

Some experts believe that giving game time to other batsmen in the squad was necessary, including Rohit, who recently found form in the two-Test series but has struggled in ODIs.

In the first ODI, India surprisingly chose to bowl first, hoping for useful batting practice while chasing. However, the decision backfired as West Indies were skittled out for a mere 114 in 23 overs on a challenging pitch.

Former India players criticized the selectors for not sending a young team to gauge how players handle international cricket’s pressure. Former players also said that an experienced campaigner like Shikhar Dhawan should be picked as a back-up opener for the World Cup due to his exceptional track record in white-ball cricket, particularly in India.Moreover, despite the extensive experimentation with the batting line-up, the team management didn’t try out opener Ruturaj Gaikwad even after his outstanding performance in the Vijay Hazare One-dayers for Maharashtra.On the other hand, supporters of the experimentation policy believe that now is the time to try out new players against the West Indies, providing clarity about the pool of players for the upcoming World Cup. Ishan Kishan made use of his chances in the series, while Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav have opportunities to showcase their skills and secure spots in the squad.