The West Indies are set to play Pakistan for test cricket action, starting from January 17, scheduled at Multan Cricket Stadium. Both the teams will be looking forward to register wins against the other team and successfully complete the Test cricket season ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
West Indies’ hit a new low in Test cricket
The mood is not particularly good for the West Indies ahead of their clash against Pakistan in the longest format of the game. The Caribbean suffered in Test cricket during the 2023-25 WTC cycle. The former world champions are at the bottom of the current WTC ranking with only 2 wins in the cycle and 7 losses, while 2 matches ended in a draw. Therefore, West Indies’ percentage point (PCT) currently stands at a dismal 24.24. The Windies last registered a Test win against Bangladesh in November 2024 and are currently in danger of bottoming out in the current WTC cycle. Hence, a win for West Indies in the upcoming 2-match series against Pakistan is a must.
Key challenges and opportunities for the West Indies
For West Indies, their top-order batting consistency remains a key concern, as an early collapse could expose their middle order to Pakistan’s powerful bowling unit. However, the Windies have an opportunity to tap into some exceptional talent in their squad which could help their current situation in the longest format of the game. The pitch for the upcoming test match is expected to remain a bit slow and have an unexpected twist which could prove beneficial for the spinners. West Indies, therefore, should settle for solid partnerships in their top-order and middle-order and have a dedicated spin attack in their bowling unit so that they can trouble Pakistan’s batsmen as the match progresses.
Also read: PAK vs WI: Pakistan Playing XI for First Test against West Indies – Predicted
This is the predicted playing XI for West Indies in the 1st Test against Pakistan
1. Kraigg Braithwaite: Captain and character
Without a doubt, Kraigg Braithwaite is more than the captain of the West Indies Test team. He is responsible for getting the runs on the board and keeping this team intact against a determined Pakistani who had previously given England trouble in Tests on their home turf.
2. Alick Athanaze: Pillar of the West Indies batting unit
Another important part of the West Indies batting order, Alick Athanaze has the ability to support Braithwaite as a reliable opening partner and can support the team with his sensible batting in times of need. However, Athanaze has to deal with the opening overs and aim for a long innings for his team.
3. Tevin Imlach: Golden opportunity for young players
Tevin Imlach was selected in the West Indies squad after an impressive performance in first-class cricket. The youngster has to prove his worth and continue his impressive domestic cricket form against Pakistan. Imlach also impressed in the recently concluded practice match where he played a knock of 57 runs against Pakistan Shaheens.
4. Joshua Da Silva: Talented goalkeeper batsman
Joshua Da Silva is another promising player for West Indies who has the ability to score runs according to the need and situation of the game. The 26-year-old has struggled for form in the past but has the ability to play a blistering innings and trouble Pakistan’s bowlers.
5. Amir Jangoo: A debutant with experience against spin
Amir Jangoo is another young West Indian batsman with an impressive domestic record. The 27-year-old came into limelight after scoring his maiden ODI century against Bangladesh on debut. He is expected to repeat his impressive performance against Pakistan. Jangoo is also known for his versatility on the field as a quality fielder and wicket keeper apart from his batting talents.
6. Justin Greaves: Versatile player with a set role
Justin Greaves is especially important for the West Indies to bowl a few overs amid long spells from the traditional bowlers. A player of this profile is especially important in subcontinental conditions. Greaves is also skilled with the bat and has contributed runs for the team in the past.
7. Kavem Hodge: A reliable all-rounder
Kavem Hodge has a similar role to Greaves. However, the difference is that Hodge has a proven track record as an all-rounder for the West Indies. The 31-year-old is the leading run-scorer for West Indies in 2024 with 586 runs in Test cricket. Additionally, the slow orthodox left-arm bowler may prove worthy for the Windies on a pitch that is expected to be favorable for the bowlers.
8. Kemar Roach: Experienced pacer leading the line
Kemar Roach is an experienced Test format campaigner. The 36-year-old has taken 282 wickets in Test cricket for his national team. His experience may prove to be an important factor in bringing out the determination and sensibility of the game in the West Indies team. Roach is also a natural leader in the bowling unit and can guide other young bowlers on their way to bowling in sub-continental conditions.
9. Gudakesh Motie: A spinner on a mission
Gudakesh Motie has proved his worth in white-ball cricket as a sharp bowler with outstanding wicket-taking ability. The youngster, however, now has to prove the same in the longest format of the game using favorable spin bowling conditions.
10. Jayden Seales: Flawless goal scorer
Jayden Seales is the leading wicket taker for West Indies in the last year with 35 wickets in 13 innings. The 23-year-old young pace sensation is on pace for two 5-wicket hauls in 2024, and notably exceeded expectations against Pakistan by taking 11 wickets in the 2 Test matches he played.
11. Kevin Sinclair: The perfect blend of experience and intensity
The youngster showed promising signs against the Shaheens during the warm-up game and claimed 3 wickets in the second innings of the Shaheens. Taking an extra spinner can be useful on a slow Multan track that favors spin bowling.
Also read: Pakistan appoints new bowling coach ahead of home Test series against West Indies
