A gripping contest is set to unfold in Antigua as two teams with faltering batting line-ups but formidable fast bowling attacks prepare for a showdown. Adding to the tension, rain is forecasted for all five days of the Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Big Picture: Can Bangladesh Overcome the Antigua Curse?
Bangladesh’s return to Antigua revives haunting memories of previous tours. Their last two visits to the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium began disastrously, with scores of 103 and 43 all out. This time, the challenge intensifies with key batters Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto absent.
For West Indies, the focus will be on revitalizing their batting unit, which has struggled despite promising talent. Their pace attack, bolstered by Alzarri Joseph’s return alongside Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph, aims to exploit Bangladesh’s weaknesses on a pace-friendly pitch.
Team Form
- West Indies: LDLLL (last five Tests)
- Bangladesh: LLLLW
Both teams will look to end their streaks of inconsistency with a strong performance in this series opener.
Players to Watch
Shamar Joseph (West Indies)
Shamar Joseph has had a remarkable year, beginning with a sensational five-wicket haul on debut in Adelaide and a career-best 7 for 68 in Brisbane. He’s set to capitalize on Bangladesh’s fragile batting line-up and end the year on a high note.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Bangladesh)
Stepping in as captain due to Shanto’s injury, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has a daunting task ahead. While his recent form with the ball has dipped, his batting contributions in 2024 have been crucial.
Team News
West Indies
With Jason Holder and Gudakesh Motie unavailable, Justin Greaves and Alzarri Joseph are likely to step in, strengthening both the batting and bowling departments.
Probable XI:
- Kraigg Brathwaite (capt), 2. Mikyle Louis, 3. Keacy Carty, 4. Alick Athanaze, 5. Kavem Hodge, 6. Justin Greaves, 7. Joshua Da Silva (wk), 8. Alzarri Joseph, 9. Jomel Warrican, 10. Jayden Seales, 11. Shamar Joseph
Bangladesh
The absence of Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto opens up opportunities for Litton Das and Jaker Ali.
Probable XI:
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy, 2. Shadman Islam, 3. Zakir Hasan, 4. Mominul Haque, 5. Shahadat Hossain, 6. Litton Das (wk), 7. Jaker Ali, 8. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), 9. Taijul Islam, 10. Nahid Rana, 11. Hasan Mahmud
Pitch and Weather
- The Antigua pitch favors fast bowlers, with bounce and movement expected to play a significant role.
- Rain is forecasted throughout the Test, which could lead to frequent interruptions.
Stats and Trivia
- Kemar Roach’s Antigua Record: 50 wickets in nine Tests at an average of 17.44.
- Roach vs. Bangladesh: Leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers with 44 wickets at an average of 20.79.
- Bangladesh batters haven’t scored a century in the West Indies since Mushfiqur Rahim’s 116 in 2014.
The clash in Antigua promises an intense battle between fast bowlers and under-pressure batters. Will rain be the ultimate decider, or can one team rise above the odds? Stay tuned!