Cricket Clash in Ahmedabad: West Indies vs India

In a riveting start to the test series, West Indies captain Roston Chase opted to bat first against India after winning the toss in Ahmedabad. Thursday's game marks the opening test of the two-match series.

Following a harsh 3-0 defeat by Australia back in July, the West Indies face the challenge of playing without injured fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph. This marks their first tour of India in seven years.

Meanwhile, India is ushering in a new leadership era at home under captain Shubman Gill, post the retirements of cricket icons Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. The series is crucial for World Test Championship points, with forthcoming matches to be held in Ahmedabad and New Delhi.

Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah makes it to the squad despite ongoing injury management. His workload this year has been significant, having played only three of five tests in the 2-2 series in England over the summer.

(With inputs from agencies.)