MELBOURNE: Next month’s first Test against Australia will see West Indies introducing a minimum of four debutants, as they’ve enlisted seven uncapped players in a 15-man squad for the upcoming two-match series.
Despite the team’s current eighth position in the world rankings, their prospects of breaking a 20-year losing streak against Australia seem dimmed as key players like all-rounders Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers opt for franchise T20 cricket over the series. Additionally, fast bowler Jayden Seales is out of contention due to a shoulder injury.
“The squad has been affected by the unavailability of some key players,” lead selector Desmond Haynes said in a statement.
“However, we have had a very strong red-ball program being run over the past year, which has unearthed significant talent throughout the region.”
The Kraigg Brathwaite-led West Indies squad introduces fresh talent, featuring batsman Zachary McCaskie, wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach, versatile players Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, and Kevin Sinclair, along with pace sensations Akeem Jordan and Shamar Joseph as uncapped players.
In Australia’s recent dominant victory over Pakistan by a staggering 360 runs in the initial Test at Perth, the least seasoned player in the lineup was 26-Test wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
The forthcoming West Indies series kicks off at Adelaide Oval on Jan. 17, followed by matches at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Jan. 25.
Australia’s impeccable record against the West Indies includes their seventh consecutive Test series win in the previous home season, triumphing in Perth and Adelaide.
The West Indies’ recent victories against Australia date back to their 3-1 home series win in 2003, with their last win in Australia occurring in 1997.
The West Indies squad for the series comprises Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Alzarri Joseph, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kirk McKenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Joshua DaSilva, Akeem Jordan, Gudakesh Motie, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Tevin Imlach, Shamar Joseph, and Zachary McCaskie.
