India’s Concerns After Winning the West Indies Test Series

India recently won the two-match Test series against the West Indies and got their first series win of the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, the visitors still have some concerns that need to be addressed before their next Test series. Here are three major concerns for Team India in Test cricket after the West Indies series.

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Lack of Consistency in Batting

India’s batting lineup has been inconsistent in recent times, with the top order failing to provide a solid foundation and the middle order struggling to hold the innings together. While Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane have been in good form, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli have struggled to get going.

The middle order has been a particular concern, with Rishabh Pant’s absence leaving a gaping hole in the lineup. The young Southpaw’s underrated glovework behind the stumps has also been missed. Ishan Kishan scored his first Test half-century during his debut against the Windies, but it is uncertain if he can offer the consistency that India’s middle order requires.

Inability to Take 20 Wickets

India’s bowling attack has been one of the best in the world in recent years, but they have struggled to take 20 wickets in a Test match in recent times. While Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have been in good form, the likes of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav have struggled to make an impact.

India has also missed the services of Ravindra Jadeja, who has been ruled out due to injury. While Ravichandran Ashwin has done well in his absence, India needs to find a way to take wickets consistently if they are to win Test matches on a regular basis.

Wicket-keeper Conundrum

India still hasn’t sorted out their wicket-keeper problem, with Rishabh Pant’s absence leaving a gaping hole in the middle order. KS Bharat was given a go for a bit, but poor performances with the bat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the WTC final led to him being dropped from the playing XI.

Ishan Kishan subsequently made his debut against the Windies and notched up his maiden Test half-century in the second match. Although he was decent behind the stumps, batting conditions were extremely favourable.