West Indies seek fresh start

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):

Rain could play a major role in the opening Test between West Indies and South Africa starting today, thwarting the hosts' attempts to turn the page on the recent dreadful one-day series.

Heavy rainfall this week, caused by a tropical weather system, has disrupted both teams' preparation for the first match of the three-Test series and could be a factor when the match bowls off at 10 a.m. Eastern Caribbean time (9 a.m. Jamaica time) at the Queen's Park Oval.

West Indies will be attempting to reverse the ill-fortune that saw them whitewashed 5-0 in the one-day international (ODI) series and swept 2-0 by the Proteas in the preceding Twenty20 series.

"Both teams will be starting fresh and we will be looking to make the most of the opportunities we get in the Test series," said Chris Gayle, the West Indies captain.

"It's the long version of the game and we are in the right frame of mind. It is an opportunity for us and I know we are all capable of performing."

Injury has robbed the West Indies of two key players for the match, with classy stroke-maker Ramnaresh Sarwan and experienced pacer Jerome Taylor both ruled out.

With Sarwan gone, it means Gayle and veteran left-hander Shiv Chanderpaul will bear the brunt of the batting.

Quality opponent

"I had a disappointing run in the ODIs. I have always done well against South Africa in Test cricket, so I am really looking forward to this series," Gayle pointed out.

"It will be a tough series, they are quality opponents, but I am confident I can turn things around with the bat and make a meaningful contribution to the team."

West Indies will carefully mull over the composition of their bowling attack, especially with Taylor out and speedster Kemar Roach struggling with a bad ankle. Windward Islands pacer Nelon Pascal could be handed his Test debut while Dominican off-spinner Shane Shillingford could also be on the break of his maiden Test.

Meanwhile, South Africa captain, Graeme Smith, said his side would be wary of a West Indies side looking to rebound after a string of poor results.

"The first Test is crucial in the series. Mentally, we must make sure we are ready for the type of Test cricket we are going to play.

"The West Indies have been away and regrouped and have got a few new faces around them. They will be very motivated to bounce back after the one-day series loss."

A 'Test'

Meanwhile, West Indies A were keeping their eyes on the skies as they prepared for their opening four-day Test against India at Grace Road in England today. The regional team were forced to complete their final practice session at the Leicestershire County Ground yesterday after rain swept across the central England venue.