West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach will miss Thursday's opening Test against India in Rajkot after he flew back to Barbados for the funeral of his grandmother.

Roach, who was included for the two Tests after recovering from a hamstring injury, will rejoin the squad during the match.

"Kemar Roach is a very experienced fast bowler with great skill. He is one of our leaders. It is a big loss," West Indies coach Stuart Law said in Rajkot on Tuesday.

"Having said that, Shannon Gabriel has been outstanding in the last couple of Tests, that too in similar conditions to India," he said.

He also said that the Jason Holder-led West Indies had some "bright talents coming through" in Keemo Paul, who has played one Test, and the uncapped Sherman Lewis.

"Sometimes it is better going with the unknown to surprise the opposition. Pace has been our strength," said Law.

The second Test begins in Hyderabad on October 12.