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He West Indies are ready to play Pakistan for Test cricket action, starting January 17, scheduled at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Both teams will hope to register wins against the other team and finish the Test cricket season on a high ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025.
West Indies hit new low in Test cricket
Spirits are not particularly high for the West Indies ahead of their clash against Pakistan in the longest format of the game. The Caribbeans have suffered in Test cricket throughout the 2023-25 WTC cycle. The former world champions are at the bottom of the current WTC standings with only 2 wins in the cycle and 7 losses, while 2 matches ended in a draw. Thus, the percentage points (PCT) of the West Indies currently stand at a terrible figure of 24.24. The Windies last recorded a Test victory against Bangladesh in November 2024 and are currently at risk of ending up at the bottom of the current WTC cycle. Therefore, a win for West Indies in the upcoming two-match series against Pakistan is a must.
Key challenges and opportunities for the West Indies
For the West Indies, their top-order batting consistency remains a key concern as early collapses could expose their middle-order to Pakistan’s potent bowling unit. However, the Windies have the opportunity to capitalize on some exceptional talents in their squad that could help their current situation in the longest format of the game. The field for the next Test match is expected to remain a bit slow and have an unexpected twist that may prove beneficial for the spinners. West Indies should therefore look for strong partnerships in their top and middle order and have a dedicated spin attack in their bowling unit so that they can trouble the Pakistani batsmen as the match progresses.
Also Read: PAK vs WI: Pakistan to play XI for 1st Test against West Indies – Scheduled
Here is the predicted XI for West Indies in the first Test against Pakistan
1. Kraigg Braithwaite: the captain and the character
Kraigg Braithwaite is certainly more than the captain of the West Indies Test team. He is responsible for putting runs on the board and keeping this team intact against a determined Pakistani team who had earlier caused problems for the England team in the Test on home soil.
2. Alick Athanaze: The 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 no-nonsense batting in times of need. However, Athanaze needs to handle the opening overs and aim to play long innings for his team.
3. Tevin Imlach: a golden opportunity for the young man
Tevin Imlach was selected in the West Indies squad amid an impressive performance in first-class cricket. The youngster needs to prove himself and continue his impressive form in domestic cricket 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: the talented wicketkeeper-batsman
Joshua Da Silva is another promising West Indies batsman who has the ability to score runs as per the needs and situation of the game. The 26-year-old has struggled with his form in the past, however, he has the ability to play impressive innings and trouble the Pakistani bowlers.
5. Amir Jangoo: the debutant with experience against spin
Amir Jangoo is another young West Indies batsman with an impressive domestic record. The 27-year-old rose to fame after scoring his first 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 wicketkeeper, in addition to his batting talent.
6. Justin Greaves: the all-rounder with a certain role
Justin Greaves is particularly important for the West Indies to be able to bowl some overs amid long spells from the traditional bowlers. A player with this profile is especially important in the conditions of the subcontinent. Greaves is also skilled with the bat and has contributed runs for the team in the past.
7. Kavem Hodge: the reliable all-rounder
Kavem Hodge has a similar role to Greaves. The difference, however, is that Hodge has a proven track record as an all-rounder for the West Indies. The 31-year-old is West Indies’ leading run-scorer in 2024 with 586 runs in Test cricket. Also, a slow left-arm orthodox bowler may prove worthy of the Windies on a pitch that is expected to be bowler-friendly.
8. Kemar Roach: An experienced pacer leading the line
Kemar Roach is an experienced advocate of the Test format. The 36-year-old has taken 282 wickets in Test cricket for his national team. His experience can prove to be an important factor in highlighting the determination and playing sensitivity in the West Indies team. Roach is also a natural leader in the bowling unit and can guide other young players on the path to bowling in sub-continental conditions.
9. Gudakesh Motie: Roulette with a mission
Gudakesh Motie has proven himself in white-ball cricket as a skilled spinner with remarkable wicket-taking ability. The youngster, however, now has to prove the same in the longest format of the game, taking advantage of the favorable conditions for spin bowling.
10. Jayden Seales: The impeccable wicket-taker
Jayden Seales is West Indies’ leading wicket-taker in the last year with 35 wickets to his name in 13 innings. The 23-year-old young pace sensation has two 5-wicket hauls in 2024 and particularly exceeded expectations against Pakistan by taking 11 wickets in 2 Test matches he played.
11. Kevin Sinclair: a perfect combination of experience and intensity
The youngster showed promising signs against Shaheens during the warm-up match and took 3 wickets in Shaheens’ second innings. Carrying an extra spinner can be beneficial on Multan’s slow track, which favors spin bowling.
