Australia vs West Indies: 1st Test Preview and Key Players
Match Overview
Australia is set to face the West Indies in the opening Test of their three-match series. This encounter will take place at Kensington Oval in Barbados from June 25 to June 29, 2025, starting at 7:30 PM IST.
West Indies Team Insights
The West Indies are embarking on a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle under the leadership of Roston Chase, who aims to improve upon their previous disappointing performances. The squad will be without seasoned pacer Kemar Roach, but Shamar Joseph is ready to step in. With a youthful lineup, the team hopes to kick off their home series positively. Kraigg Brathwaite and Mikyle Louis are expected to open the batting, while Roston Chase and Jomel Warrican will handle the spin bowling duties.
Australia's Squad Update
Australia enters this series following a loss in the WTC final against South Africa. Despite their strong performance in the last WTC cycle, they are looking to start anew. However, they will miss veteran batsman Steve Smith, who is sidelined with a fractured finger sustained during the final, and Marnus Labuschagne will also be unavailable. The opening partnership will feature Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja, while the middle order will be bolstered by Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, and Travis Head. Nathan Lyon will lead the spin attack.
Pitch Conditions at Kensington Oval
The pitch at Kensington Oval is known for being conducive to batting, with a history of favoring pace bowlers, particularly those who can deliver good-length bouncers with extra pace. Batters often find it challenging during the first session. The average first innings score at this venue is 315, which rises to 358 in the second innings before tapering off as the match progresses. Teams that bowl first may have a slight advantage.
Weather Forecast
The weather during the Test match is expected to be cool and humid, with a 65% chance of rain predicted on the third and fourth days.
Head-to-Head Record
| WI vs AUS Head-to-Head (in Tests) | |
| Matches Played | 120 |
| West Indies Wins | 33 |
| Australia Wins | 61 |
| Ties | 1 |
| Draws | 25 |
Probable Playing XI
- West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite, Mikyle Louis, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Jomel Warrican, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph.
- Australia: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
Key Players to Watch
Top Wicketkeepers
- Shai Hope | WI: A consistent performer, Shai Hope has accumulated 1726 runs in 38 Tests, including two centuries and five fifties. His skills as a batsman and wicketkeeper make him a valuable asset.
- Alex Carey | AUS: An underrated player, Carey has scored 1823 runs in 40 Tests, featuring two centuries. His inclusion could enhance your fantasy team.
Top Batters
- Keacy Carty | WI: Carty has shown promise with 179 runs in five Tests. His ability to play long innings makes him a worthy pick.
- Travis Head | AUS: With 3739 runs in 57 Tests, including nine centuries, Head's experience is crucial for any fantasy lineup.
Top All-Rounders
- Roston Chase | WI: The captain is a dual threat, having scored 2265 runs and taken 85 wickets in 49 Tests. His all-round capabilities are essential for the team.
- Beau Webster | AUS: With 231 runs and three wickets in just four Tests, Webster is emerging as a key all-rounder. His recent performance in the WTC final was impressive.
Top Bowlers
- Jomel Warrican | WI: A consistent wicket-taker, Warrican took 19 wickets in his last series against Pakistan. His inclusion is vital for success.
- Pat Cummins | AUS: A formidable bowler with 301 wickets in 68 Tests, Cummins is a must-have in any fantasy team.