Test Cricket: West Indies Eyes Series Win Against South Africa
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite is keen to see marked improvement from his team ahead of the second and final Test against South Africa at Providence Stadium.
Series Win Within Reach
The Windies will be hoping to record a series win over the Proteas for the first time since 1992, following a drawn first Test in Trinidad.
Improved Performance Expected
However, Brathwaite has emphasized the need for better execution from his batters and bowlers. He feels a good first innings total is imperative, with the pitch at Providence Stadium expected to be slow.
Discipline Key
“I think it is essential to get a good first innings total; that’s one thing as a batting group we discussed, and bowling-wise, it’s just to be disciplined," Brathwaite said during a press conference on Wednesday.
He added that the team was buoyed by its strong performance in the second innings of the first Test.
“We couldn’t control the weather, but I think batting-wise in the first innings, the total we could have put more runs on the board, and that’s why I said that’s a big focus of ours, in terms of putting up a big first innings total.
Brathwaite also praised his bowlers, saying they had been quite disciplined and had scored at a good rate.
“I think we were happy with how the guys went about it in the second innings, and albeit a little more time, the guys were positive, and they had the intent, which was good to see. We’re pushing and aiming for a victory in this last Test match,” he said.
Fast bowler Shamar Joseph is the lone addition to the West Indies squad, while South Africa has made no changes.
Squads
West Indies:
- Kraigg Brathwaite (captain)
- Joshua Da Silva (vice-captain)
- Alick Athanaze
- Keacy Carty
- Bryan Charles
- Justin Greaves
- Jason Holder
- Kavem Hodge
- Tevin Imlach
- Shamar Joseph
- Mikyle Louis
- Gudakesh Motie
- Kemar Roach
- Jayden Seales
- Jomel Warrican
South Africa:
- Temba Bavuma (captain)
- David Bedingham
- Matthew Breetzke
- Nandre Burger
- Gerald Coetzee
- Tony de Zorzi
- Keshav Maharaj
- Aiden Markram
- Wiaan Mulder
- Lungi Ngidi
- Dane Paterson
- Dane Piedt
- Kagiso Rabada
- Tristan Stubbs
- Ryan Rickelton
- Kyle Verreynne
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Conclusion
West Indies are eager to win the series against South Africa and are looking to improve their performance in the second Test. With a slow pitch expected at Providence Stadium, a good first innings total will be key.
FAQs
Q: How can West Indies improve their chances of winning the series?
A: The Windies can improve their chances by performing better in both batting and bowling. They need to score more runs in their first innings and bowl more dot balls.
Q: What is the key to success at Providence Stadium?
A: The pitch at Providence Stadium is expected to be slow, so a good first innings total will be crucial. The team needs to adapt to the conditions and perform well.
Q: Are there any new additions to the West Indies squad?
A: Yes, fast bowler Shamar Joseph is the lone addition to the West Indies squad.