The captain of the West Indies, Kraigg Brathwaite, has confirmed his starting eleven for the upcoming Test match against Australia, revealing intentions to include three debutants. Commending his relatively young group, Brathwaite complimented their effective exploitation of the warm-up fixture in Adelaide.
In the three-day match against Cricket Australia XI, the top order made major contributions. On the last day, Joshua Da Silva scored a century, while Kavem Hodge scored 52 and 99, and Justin Greaves made two important runs.
Promising Shamar Joseph, who is set to make his Test debut alongside seasoned veterans Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph, led the Windies bowlers in their spectacular first-inning dismissal of the CA XI for 174.
Kraigg Brathwaite praised Hodge’s consistent efforts as being adequate.
He voiced confidence in his meticulously selected combination as the Caribbean side prepared for the battle. There’s little doubt that the Windies’ performance in the warm-up match has raised spirits ahead of the next Test match against Australia.
“On the XI, [I’m] very clear. I’m really pleased with how the boys approached the game and the camp. It’s about making the West Indies proud this time next week,” Brathwaite stated, per an ESPNcricinfo statement.
West Indies’ reorganized team looks to Australia’s past
Despite Kraigg Brathwaite silence over the exact lineup for the upcoming Test match against Australia, observations from the practice session indicate that Hodge and Greaves—along with Shamar—are probably going to make their Test debuts at Nos. 5 and 6, respectively. Although all-rounder Kevin Sinclair’s impressive performance may be taken into consideration, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, who made headlines a year ago with a 13-wicket haul against Zimbabwe, appears set to take the lead as the front-row spinner.
Da Silva took advantage of his opportunity to score a century as the West Indies rearranged their batting order in the second inning. Brathwaite and Roach both have a lot of experience—87 Tests between them and 79 for Roach—so it is expected that they will be key players and leaders on the field. Additionally anticipated to contribute their knowledge are Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alzarri, who were on the previous tour. After displaying adaptability in their practice match, the West Indies are preparing for an intense Test series against Australia.