NAGPUR, India (CMC):

West Indies captain Brian Lara yesterday warned his team to prepare for a backlash from India in the four-match one-day international (ODI) series starting tomorrow.

India have gone through a recent slump in ODI form and Lara said the hosts would use this as an impetus to rebound, especially with the Cricket World Cup coming up in March.

"We expect a great fight from India in this series. They are coming into this series on the back of poor performances - South Africa, the ICC Champions Trophy, DLF Cup in Malaysia," the 37-year-old Lara told a media conference.

"I know they would be coming hard, knowing how important this campaign is for them before the World Cup.

"This series gives an opportunity to the Indians to try and turn the tables as well (following West Indies' recent form against them).

"India haven't had great success in South Africa in the one-dayers and they would be looking for a change of fortunes. It (the series) will be very competitive."

He continued: "It's important for us that we have a psychological advantage and continue with it. There are four one-day games. We are looking to stay dominant over India."