West Indies vs England, 2nd ODI Match Preview

England and West Indies. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

In a compelling clash at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua, the West Indies will clash against England in the 2nd ODI of the series on December 6. The West Indies started the series on a high note, securing a resounding victory over England in the first match. Having missed out on the World Cup earlier, the West Indies will aim to revive their ODI cricket standing in forthcoming matches and tournaments.

On the flip side, England endured a forgettable World Cup campaign and a lacklustre start to this series, succumbing to a four-wicket defeat to the West Indies. With the upcoming Champions Trophy in sight, England will seek improved performances and wins in their endeavours. In the previous encounter, the Windies were provided a target of 326 by England who seemed catapulting the first half of the match.

The trio of Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, and Oshane Thomas showcased commendable bowling, securing two wickets each to halt the English batters. The Windies’ batting stole the show, comfortably chasing down the target with four wickets in hand. Captain Shai Hope’s outstanding 109* knock exemplified his pivotal role in the team’s resurgence in the near future.

England jostling against the word defend ever since World Cup 2023

In their attempt to defend their total, England posted a competitive score by batting first. Harry Brook’s crucial 71-run contribution in the middle order anchored England’s innings, aiding them in reaching a respectable total. Despite efforts from bowlers Gus Atkinson and Rehan Ahmed, who clinched two wickets each, England couldn’t contain the opposition’s onslaught.

The Windies batters dominated, clinching victory comfortably and sealing the match with relative ease. As the series unfolds, both teams are poised to deliver captivating cricketing spectacles, aiming to fine-tune their strategies and performances for future competitions.

Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Pitch Report

Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua offers a slightly slower track, keeping the batters in check without letting the game run away. With an average first innings score of 227 batting first and 195 chasing, it’s a track where bowlers hold sway. Batters needed to respect the bowlers’ pace and bounce. Considering the previous match, bowling first seemed a wise choice, as it allowed teams to assess and adapt to the conditions.

WI vs ENG Probable Playing XI, England Tour of West Indies

West Indies (WI):

The West Indies squad boasts promising young talent, having caught the selectors’ eye in domestic leagues. Post the World Cup setback, this series was a chance for the Men in Maroon to assert their prowess. Sticking to a successful lineup seems probable for the 2nd ODI, signalling their intent to make a mark and dispel any notions of being underestimated.

Predicted XI: Brandon King, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (C, WK), Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Yannic Cariah, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Oshane Thomas

England (ENG):

England’s youthful squad arrived without any World Cup burden. Captain Jos Buttler voiced their aim to restore lost glory. Confirming his position, Buttler asserted no plans to change his batting order, thus paving the way for Will Jacks, Phil Salt, and Zack Crawley to shape the top three positions in the lineup.

Predicted XI: Philip Salt, Will Jacks, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (C, WK), Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Brydon Carse, Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson

ENG vs WI ODIs Head-to-Head Records:

WI vs ENG Broadcast details