The much-anticipated fifth and final T20I between India and West Indies in Bengaluru, a series decider, has seen West Indies win the toss and elect to field first. Persistent rain at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium led to a significant delay, ultimately reducing the match to a nine-overs-per-side affair with a powerplay of 2.4 overs. The toss took place at 9:00 PM local time, with the game scheduled to commence at 9:15 PM local time on October 17, 2026. Why is India vs West Indies 5th T20I 9-Overs Per Side Match?

West Indies Won The Toss and Bowl First

Here's a look at #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the series decider! 🙌

𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: Nitish Kumar Reddy was not available for selection in the fifth T20I against West Indies due to illness.

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Toss Report and Captains' Insights

West Indies skipper Shai Hope confirmed his team's decision to bowl first, citing the rain around and the desire to chase a target on what he believes is a good pitch. "Rain around, but it's a good pitch. That gives us the best chance to chase it. We tend to have a lot of batters. Focus is on bowling, it's a shortened game. I just think we finish the series strong. Guys are looking forward to it," Hope stated at the toss. Indian captain Shreyas Iyer acknowledged the quick turnaround and the aggressive mindset required for the shortened format. "Quick turnaround. The wicket looks pretty good. We just have to be aggressive, not get pressed too much. It's important that we seize the game. Important to put the best foot forward," said Iyer, confirming two significant changes for India.

Playing XIs Confirmed

India has made two changes to their lineup, bringing in all-rounder Shivam Dube and experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar. West Indies, under Shai Hope's leadership, will field a strong side looking to clinch the series.

India (Playing XI):

• Abhishek Sharma
• Sanju Samson (w)
• Ishan Kishan
• Shreyas Iyer (c)
• Tilak Varma
• Shivam Dube
• Naman Dhir
• Axar Patel
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar
• Prince Yadav
• Arshdeep Singh

West Indies (Playing XI):

• Shai Hope (w/c)
• Jewel Andrew
• Shimron Hetmyer
• Rovman Powell
• Sherfane Rutherford
• Romario Shepherd
• Roston Chase
• Keemo Paul
• Shamar Springer
• Gudakesh Motie
• Shamar Joseph

Pitch and Match Conditions

According to Ian Bishop's pitch report, the M.Chinnaswamy surface, though under covers for an extended period, looks good on top despite potential moisture underneath due to recent rain. He suggested it might play a little slow and offer some lateral movement. With the game reduced to nine overs per side and a powerplay of 2.4 overs, both teams will need to adjust their strategies rapidly. The moisture in the outfield also contributed to the decision to bowl first, as chasing a target could be perceived as advantageous in such conditions. India vs West Indies Live Streaming Online and Free Telecast, 5th T20I 2026.

The series currently stands level at 2-2, setting up a thrilling finale, albeit a curtailed one. Both teams will be eager to adapt quickly to the conditions and the shortened format to secure a memorable series victory in Bengaluru.