Kolkata, July 8: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly today said off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin would be key to India's success in the Test tour of the West Indies, their first series under new head coach Anil Kumble.

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"I think Ashwin will be the key in West Indies," Ganguly, who turned 44 on Friday, said at his residence.

Fresh from winning their second World Twenty20 title, the West Indies finished runners-up to Australia in a triangular ODI series also involving South Africa to continue a glorious year that has seen them also win the women's WT20, and Under-19 World Cup.

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"They are looking stronger and in the middle of a fine form. But I think India have the side to beat them. I wish luck to (Virat) Kohli and (Anil) Kumble," Ganguly added.

Kumble will begin his stint as head coach with two practice matches against WICB President's XI from July 9-16 followed by the four Tests from July 21-August 22.

PTI