BackIndia and West Indies will battle for the T20I series trophy in the fifth and final match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, October 17.
With the five-match series level at 2-2, both teams will be eager to finish the contest with a victory. However, rain threatens to disrupt the decisive encounter.
West Indies levelled the series with a 24-run victory in the fourth T20I in Hyderabad, setting up a high-stakes finale. While the Bengaluru venue is known for its batting-friendly conditions, the weather could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Rain is the biggest concern ahead of the India vs West Indies series decider. The India Meteorological Department has forecast cloudy skies, spells of rain and a possibility of thunderstorms and lightning in Bengaluru on Saturday.
Temperatures are expected to range between 20°C and 29°C, while forecasts also indicate the possibility of thunderstorms around the scheduled start time. Rain could delay the toss, interrupt play or reduce the number of overs, depending on how conditions develop.
Both teams were unable to complete their practice sessions on the eve of the match because of rain. With the series finely poised, supporters will hope the weather allows enough time for a full contest.
The M Chinnaswamy Stadium is traditionally regarded as a batting-friendly venue in T20 cricket. Its relatively short boundaries, flat surface and quick outfield often help batters score freely, making it a challenging ground for bowlers to defend totals.
India and West Indies have already produced high-scoring performances during the series, and the Bengaluru surface could offer another opportunity for aggressive batting if the weather permits.
The toss may be particularly important. Evening dew can make the ball difficult to grip and may help the team batting second, although rain and a shortened match could change the usual tactical approach.
The fifth T20I between India and West Indies is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST on Saturday, October 17, with the toss at 6:30 PM IST.
Match: India vs West Indies, 5th T20I
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Venue: M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Toss: 6:30 PM IST
Start Time: 7:00 PM IST
Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website in India
CURRENT SCENES AT BENGALURU: [Cricbuzz] The practice session has been cancelled due to persistent rain in Bengaluru 🌧️ https://t.co/8nXUz5X5Fy
— Maina Singh (@Maina_Singhx77) October 16, 2026
Fans can follow the match on the Star Sports television network or stream it through JioHotstar. Any rain interruptions could affect the scheduled start or the length of the match.
India will look to bounce back after their defeat in Hyderabad, while West Indies will aim to carry their momentum into the decider. The visitors' win in the fourth T20I levelled the series at 2-2 after India had taken the lead.
India have also added experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the squad after Arshdeep Singh sustained a shoulder injury during the previous match.
Arshdeep's availability remained subject to his recovery, with the team management expected to assess his fitness before the game.
Back
Top| Privacy StatementTerms of ServiceContact | Refresh  |