The two-match Test series between West Indies and South Africa gets underway with the first game beginning on Wednesday, August 7, at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad.
The hosts are coming into this clash on the back of a 0-3 drubbing against England. Kraigg Brathwaite’s men lost the first game at Lord’s by an innings and 114 runs, the second at Trent Bridge by 241 runs, and the third at Edgbaston by 10 wickets. However, in the second and third Tests, the Caribbean side showed glimpses of improvement. At home, the West Indies will look to give a good account of themselves against an upbeat South African side.
On the tour of England, Kavem Hodge finished as the third-highest run-getter, scoring 216 from six innings at an average of 36. He scored a brilliant 120 off just 171 balls in the second Test and would want to go from strength to strength against South Africa. Meanwhile, Jayden Seales was the second-highest wicket-taker, bagging 13 wickets from three games at an average of 27.23 and a strike rate of 35.69. He can cause a lot of discomfort for the South African batters if he can find his rhythm.
Meanwhile, the Proteas played their last Test series against New Zealand in February. However, most of their star players skipped the tour to play in the SA20. While New Zealand won both the games in the series, many young South African players got to showcase their skills at the international level.
David Bedingham was the third-highest run-scorer in the series as he registered scores of 32, 87, 39, and 110 in the four games. The 110-run knock in the second Test at Seddon Park came off just 141 balls. Meanwhile, off-spinner Dane Piedt picked up eight wickets in the second Test, averaging 22.75.
South Africa played a warm-up game against West Indies Championship XI in Tarouba, Trinidad ahead of the first Test against the Caribbean side. After conceding 397 runs in the first innings, the tourists declared at 408/9. The home side were 46/4 in their second innings when the match ended in a draw.
Kagiso Rabada and Piedt bagged three wickets apiece in the first innings. In the second innings, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets. With the bat, Aiden Markram, captain Temba Bavuma, Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton, and Kyle Verreynne scored half-centuries.
West Indies went to South Africa last year to play a two-match Test series. The Rainbow Nation won both games comprehensively. The Windies would want to turn the tables this time.
West Indies’ best playing XI for the Test series
With a plethora of talent at their disposal, the West Indies selection committee faces a tough task in picking the best eleven for the series. Here’s a potential playing XI based on recent form, experience and the conditions on offer.
Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)
Role: Opening Batsman
Strengths: Kraigg Brathwaite is known for his solid technique and ability to bat for long periods. As captain, he leads by example, providing stability at the top of the order. His experience in international cricket will be crucial in guiding the team through challenging situations.
Mikyle Louis
Role: Batter
Strengths: Mikyle Louis is an emerging talent who can provide explosive batting as an opener. His ability to play aggressive shots can be crucial in the initial part of the innings.
Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain)
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
Strengths: Joshua Da Silva combines his wicketkeeping skills with the ability to score runs in the middle order. His calm demeanour and tactical awareness make him an essential part of the team, especially in pressure situations.
Alick Athanaze
Role: Middle Order Batter
Strengths: Alick Athanaze is a promising young batsman with a solid technique and the ability to play spin effectively. His inclusion adds depth to the batting lineup, and he is expected to build partnerships in the middle overs.
Justin Greaves
Role: All-Rounder
Strengths: Justin Greaves adds balance to the team with his all-round capabilities. He can provide valuable runs in the lower order and is a handy bowler, making him an asset in varying conditions.
Jason Holder
Role: All-Rounder
Strengths: Jason Holder is a key player with his experience and leadership skills. His ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball makes him a vital cog in the team. Holder’s height and pace add an extra dimension to the bowling attack.
Kavem Hodge
Role: Batter
Strengths: Kavem Hodge is a solid batsman who can play both defensive and attacking roles. His adaptability will be crucial in building innings and providing stability in the middle order.
Gudakesh Motie
Role: Spinner
Strengths: Gudakesh Motie is an effective left-arm spinner who can exploit turning conditions. His ability to take wickets in crucial moments will be vital, especially in the second innings of matches.
Kemar Roach
Role: Fast Bowler
Strengths: Kemar Roach is one of the most experienced bowlers in the squad. His pace, swing, and ability to bowl in the death overs make him a key player in the bowling lineup. He has a knack for taking early wickets, which can set the tone for the innings.
Jayden Seales
Role: Fast Bowler
Strengths: Jayden Seales is a young fast bowler with the potential to make a significant impact. His pace and ability to swing the ball can trouble batsmen, especially in the early overs.
Shamar Joseph
Role: Fast Bowler
Strengths: Shamar Joseph adds depth to the pace attack with his ability to bowl consistently at a good pace. His role will be to support Roach and Seales in applying pressure on the South African batting lineup.