India's cricket team captain, Shubman Gill, has indicated the possibility of fielding an extra fast bowler in the first Test match against the West Indies. The match is scheduled to begin on Thursday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Gill cited the overcast conditions and the potential moisture in the pitch as factors influencing this decision. He stated that the final XI would be determined after assessing the pitch on the match day. Usually, India plays with two seamers and three spinners in home conditions in Tests.

In a pre-match press conference held on Wednesday, Gill acknowledged the challenge of transitioning from the Asia Cup to the Test format. He emphasized that the shift would be more mental than technical. Gill also mentioned that he is currently feeling fresh and is not too concerned about his workload. He prefers to take things "week by week".

Regarding Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion in the playing XI, Gill clarified that the decision would be made on a "match-to-match basis". This will depend on Bumrah's workload and how the bowlers are feeling.

Gill also conveyed that the team is prepared to play "tough cricket" in the two-match Test series against the West Indies. He said that the team is not looking for any easy options and is ready to compete hard.

The two-match series between India and the West Indies is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27. After the first Test in Ahmedabad, the teams will move to Delhi for the second and final Test.