NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) — The West Indies will look to capitalise on their game three wins against Sri Lanka in their last One Day International (ODI) when they face an England side looking for a fresh start in the opening game of their three-match series.
Thursday’s encounter is set to be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
The West Indies face an ongoing challenge in adapting their Twenty20-oriented mindset to the ODI format. Their recent tour of Sri Lanka highlighted this, with only Sherfane Rutherford offering resistance in an otherwise one-sided 1-2 series loss.
Yet, the Caribbean team often finds another level when hosting England, especially at home venues where fans add a special energy.
Shai Hope remains the foundation of West Indies’ batting, but Rutherford’s improving form brings optimism. The return of Shimron Hetmyer boosts a batting order complemented by a bowling line-up tailored for home conditions.
Opener Evin Lewis will be on the hunt for more runs after scoring a century in the final ODI against Sri Lanka, while his opening partner Brandon King may find home conditions more favourable to start putting some scores together.
The pitch conditions could be a defining factor in this series, and while West Indies have more experience, England’s young squad is unpredictable enough to make this series tough to call.
England’s Captain, Jos Buttler, is missing out due to injury, and Liam Livingstone steps in as captain for the first time.
This squad has a more established core than the experimental group that played against Australia, featuring the return of all-rounder Sam Curran and the exciting inclusions of wrist spinners Rehan Ahmed and Jafer Chohan.
One of the more intriguing inclusions is Michael-Kyle Pepper, a dynamic batsman known for his unique style, which he has demonstrated in both the T20 Blast and The Hundred. Pepper could open with Phil Salt, bringing a new dimension to England’s top order.
With regulars Harry Brook and Jamie Smith rested, this tour is a prime opportunity for fringe players to make their case for future selection, including Livingstone, who is eager to solidify his ODI career.