WI looking to pile more misery on England

The first Test series in the Caribbean for 2022 begins today in Antigua and Barbuda, as hosts West Indies welcome archrivals England at the Sir Vivian Richards Ground, starting at 9 a.m. (Jamaica time).

It’s the first of three Tests, with the new Sir Vivian Richards and Sir Ian Botham Trophy up for grabs.

The West Indies have dominated the home series for more than 50 years, but pundits believe this series is anybody’s as the teams have a similar make-up in both the batting and bowling departments.

“One of the things that will play a part in this series is how well the two all-rounders cancel out each other, namely, (Ben) Stokes (England) and West Indies’ Jason (Holder). The other part is how well the two captains bat. Those are the two big factors,” said West Indies head coach Phil Simmons.

Many may say that the West Indies have the slight edge, with England missing their two best Test bowlers in James Anderson and Stuart Broad. However, a cadre of new up-and-coming players are keen to cement their places in the England side, and they are here in the Caribbean to prove a point.

The most encouraging news for regional fans ahead of the start of this series, is that England have not won a Test match in Antigua and Barbuda for well over three decades, and Simmons is keen on keeping that record intact.

“It is a case of looking to play the cricket that will put us in a position to win the series. We are trying to work hard on all aspects that we need to get together. The three grounds, we know them, so we are trying to make sure we are ready for everything England can hit us with,” said Simmons.

Once again, the batting unit will be placed under the microscope, with Simmons well aware that the team that scores heavily will have the best chance of winning the Test match.

“Our five-day camp was all about addressing the fact that as batsmen, we need to bat long and make sure that we give our bowlers something to work with. The camp went well, so I expect good things from them.”

That batting unit should include captain Kraigg Brathwaite being partnered by Jamaican John Campbell, with compatriot Nkrumah Bonner slotted at number three, followed by Kyle Mayers, Jermaine Blackwood, and then all-rounder Jason Holder.

The West Indies could tinker with the idea of going in with five bowlers, which means spinner Veerasammy Permaul could make the final 11.

For England, their disappointing Ashes series and post-Anderson and Broad era begins now, and captain Joe Root is hoping he can finally get the monkey off his back and win a series in the Caribbean.

“We know that, historically, it’s not an easy place for England to come and play, but that’s a great opportunity for the group. To come away from here winning would be a huge achievement.”