India-West Indies T20 series opens in Lucknow today, rain threatens; Morkel on Vaibhav's selection

The five-match T20 series between India and the West Indies begins today. The first match will be played at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Rain threatens the match, so it remains to be seen whether it will be played and, if so, whether it will be a full-length game or with reduced overs.

The biggest talking point is whether India's 15-year-old young batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi will find a place in the playing XI for the first match. Indian team bowling coach Morne Morkel has made an important statement on Suryavanshi's selection.

Speaking to the media, Morkel said, "Vaibhav is a very capable and talented player. He has amazing ability. Whether to give him a chance in the playing XI or not, the team management will take the final decision only after assessing the conditions and the pitch." His statement has further heightened cricket fans' curiosity about the 15-year-old's international debut.

Heavy rain fell in Lucknow and north India a few days before the match, raising the water level of the Gomti river. Water has also collected in some areas around the stadium. However, it has been reported that the ground is well maintained so that water drains away, and the field is completely dry. This will cause no problem during the match.

Although the threat of rain is still being reported, experts say the chances of rain are very low.

On the pitch, the Lucknow surface may help fast bowlers in the early overs. There is also a possibility of light rain before the match. If it rains, fast bowlers could get swing with the new ball.

Ahead of the first match of the series, the weather and the pitch remain big questions, along with Suryavanshi's name. Whether he gets a place in the team will be clear at the toss, though that cannot be said for now, as the decision rests with the team management.