India have announced their 15-member ODI squad for the upcoming West Indies series, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain and KL Rahul named vice-captain. The squad also marks the return of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are set to resume international cricket after a two-month break.

The three-match ODI series begins on September 27 in Thiruvananthapuram. The matches will be followed by five T20Is, with India continuing their preparations for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. Former India batter and analyst Aakash Chopra has highlighted the expectations surrounding Rohit and Kohli ahead of their return. With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Chopra believes the two experienced batters will be expected to make a consistent contribution with the bat.

“The World Cup is just one year away now, and I know that if Rohit and Kohli get in, they’ll score runs, win you matches, and possibly win you trophies. So, looking at it from this perspective, the only expectation from Rohit and Kohli is just this: keep scoring runs,” Aakash Chopra said on JioStar.

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Rohit and Kohli’s return gives India valuable experience as the team continues to assess its combinations ahead of the World Cup. The West Indies ODIs could provide both batters with an opportunity to settle back into the 50-over setup and build momentum before the global tournament.

Ravindra Jadeja has also returned to the ODI squad after last featuring for India in the format during the series against New Zealand in January. His experience as a left-arm spinner and lower-order batter adds balance to the side.

Chopra believes Jadeja will need to contribute in multiple areas to strengthen his case for a World Cup place. “Ravindra Jadeja will have to, of course, take wickets and score runs. Fielding has always been his strong suit,” Chopra said.

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The West Indies series will also give several other players an opportunity to strengthen their claims ahead of the World Cup. With competition for places expected to remain intense, Chopra stressed the importance of making the most of every chance. “Not all of them will go to South Africa. So, someone will be left out, and therefore, every time you get an opportunity, you have to grab it with both hands,” he added.