After a tight 1st Test, which ended up in a draw, the West Indies prepared for the 2nd Test against South Africa. The team management will be keen on making some strategic changes to improve their performance. The first test was a great fight between West Indies and South Africa and the hosts were keen to make a comeback.
Here’s a prediction of the West Indies’ playing XI for the upcoming Test.
Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)
The West Indies skipper Kraigg Brathwaite had a challenging time in the 1st Test, managing just 35 runs in the first innings and a duck in the second. However, his experience and leadership are crucial, and he is likely to retain his spot as the opener. Brathwaite will need to lead from the front and provide a solid start to the innings.
Mikyle Louis
Mikyle Louis, the young opener, struggled in the 1st Test, with scores of 35 and 9. However, the West Indies management might give him another opportunity to prove himself, considering the team’s current options. His aggressive approach at the top could be beneficial if he finds form.
Keacy Carty
Keacy Carty showed glimpses of potential with scores of 42 and 31 in the two innings. As one of the more stable batters in the lineup, Carty is expected to continue in the top order. His ability to anchor the innings will be vital in the 2nd Test, especially against a potent South African bowling attack.
Alick Athanaze
Alick Athanaze had a mixed outing in the 1st Test, with a poor score of 3 in the first innings but redeeming himself with a crucial 92 in the second. His performance in the second innings showed resilience, and he is likely to be retained in the lineup. His middle-order role will be crucial to hold the innings together.
Kavem Hodge
Kavem Hodge struggled to make a significant impact with the bat, scoring 25 and 29 in the two innings. However, given the lack of better alternatives, Hodge might get another chance. His fielding capabilities and the potential to contribute with the ball could also weigh in his favor.
Jason Holder
Jason Holder remains one of the key all-rounders in the team. He had a decent outing with the bat, scoring 36 in the first innings and an unbeaten 31 in the second. Holder’s experience, along with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, makes him a sure starter for the 2nd Test.
Joshua Da Silva (Wicketkeeper)
Joshua Da Silva had a tough time with the bat, managing just 13 runs in the first innings. However, he remained unbeaten on 21 in the second innings, showing some resilience. As the wicketkeeper, Da Silva is likely to keep his place, but he will need to step up his batting performance.
Gudakesh Motie
Gudakesh Motie was not very effective with the ball, but his role as a spinner is crucial. He bowled 28 overs in the first innings and 2 in the second, though without much success. Motie’s inclusion will depend on the pitch conditions, but he remains a potential starter.
Jomel Warrican
Jomel Warrican was the standout bowler for the West Indies in the 1st Test, taking 4 wickets in the first innings and 2 in the second. His ability to trouble the South African batters makes him an essential part of the bowling attack.
Kemar Roach
Kemar Roach had a decent outing with the ball, taking 2 wickets in the first innings and 1 in the second. His experience and skill make him a vital part of the pace attack, and he is expected to retain his place in the XI.
Jayden Seales
Jayden Seales was one of the better performers for the West Indies, picking up 3 wickets in the first innings. His pace and ability to extract bounce make him a threat to the South African batters. Seales is likely to be retained as the primary fast bowler in the lineup.
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