Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will return to India’s ODI setup when the West Indies begin their three-match series in India on September 27. The experienced pair are part of the squad led by Shubman Gill, adding significant experience to a side preparing for the next phase of its ODI campaign.

The first ODI will be played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, followed by matches in Guwahati on September 30 and New Chandigarh on October 3. All three games are scheduled to start at 2 PM IST.

For Kohli and Rohit, the series provides another opportunity to spend time in India’s ODI setup. Their inclusion has also increased interest around the opening match, with the two senior batters expected to play important roles alongside Gill and the rest of the batting group.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir recently highlighted the experience Kohli and Rohit bring to the team. He said Gill can benefit from having both players around him as he continues his development as India’s ODI captain.

There is also a milestone watch around the series. Kohli is approaching 15,000 ODI runs, while Rohit is closing in on 12,000 runs in the format. Ravindra Jadeja is another Indian player with a significant statistical landmark within reach.

West Indies, led by Shai Hope, have already arrived in Thiruvananthapuram ahead of the opening match. The visitors will look to challenge an Indian side that combines experienced campaigners with younger players.

With the first ODI only days away, attention will now turn to team combinations, playing XIs and how Kohli and Rohit fit into Gill’s side. The opening match promises plenty of interest as India begin their latest ODI assignment on home soil.