West Indies’ batting struggles were evident once again as they faced an inexperienced Cricket Australia XI on the first day of a three-day warm-up match in Adelaide.
Despite promising starts, the West Indies batsmen failed to capitalize against a CA XI devoid of players with Test experience, raising concerns about the team’s readiness for the upcoming Test series against Australia.
Opting to bat first on a dry Karen Rolton wicket, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who had shown his class in their previous Test series in Australia, contributed 52 runs at the top of the order.
Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves, both vying for a Test debut, posted scores of 52 and 62, respectively, showcasing their readiness for the format.
Dismissals that highlighted vulnerabilities
However, the West Indies’ innings were marred by dismissals that highlighted vulnerabilities. Top-order batsmen Kirk McKenzie (23) and Alick Athanaze (zero) were both dismissed by short-pitched deliveries, drawing the attention of Australia’s seamers.
Brathwaite’s dismissal, as he attempted a paddle-sweep off Doug Warren, further compounded the issues as it marked a collapse of three wickets for three runs.
Late in the day, another collapse ensued, with four wickets falling for just eight runs, coinciding with the introduction of the second new ball. This came after Hodge and Greaves had stabilized the innings, taking the score to 223 for 4.
Liam Haskett led the CA XI’s bowling attack, claiming three wickets for 57 runs. Jack Nisbet from New South Wales took two wickets for 50, and Victorian spinner Doug Warren secured two wickets for 47. Notably, these three bowlers have collectively played only nine first-class matches.
Seven uncapped players in 15-man squad
The concerns over the West Indies’ form are amplified by the fact that they will feature at least three debutants in the first Test against Australia, with seven uncapped players in their 15-man squad. Former captain Jason Holder and all-rounder Kyle Mayers opted out of the tour to pursue Twenty20 opportunities.
In the previous summer, West Indies were convincingly defeated in two Tests in Australia, and only five players from that tour are in the current squad.
The West Indies’ batting woes raise questions about their preparedness as they head into the challenging two-Test series against Australia.
