The West Indies’ chances of winning ODI cricket have been fading for some time now. They haven’t had many noteworthy victories in this format since the 2019 World Cup, and as a result of their dismal run, they will be missing the ODI World Cup in 2023 for the first time ever.
Only against countries like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, and Ireland have the West Indies won a series in this format over the past four years. They have also experienced some humiliating losses, as Ireland defeated them 2-1 once and Bangladesh thrashed them 3-0 twice in the same time frame. However, the men in maroon can restore their confidence with a victory over 2019 world champions England as they embark on a mission to pick themselves up once again in a format they once bossed.
West Indies easily prevailed in a formidable chase of 326 thanks to their extremely clinical use of the bat. The captain led from the front with a magnificent century, and four of the top five batters stood tall. It is certainly praiseworthy that they prevailed against a squad that is suffering for unrelated causes (but in the same manner). Their confidence will soar if they can pull off a coup on them for the second time in four days.
Ideally, England wouldn’t be bothered about their defeat in the opening One-Day International. They did introduce several adjustments into this series following the WC fiasco. Nothing has changed in terms of strategy, as Phil Salt demonstrated on Sunday. Although victories are crucial, in the grand scheme of things, they will be hoping that the newcomers can make an impression and challenge for spots in the event that the big names return in the future.
When: December 6, 2023, 1:30 PM local time, Second ODI
Where: North Sound, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua
What to expect: For the game, clear skies are anticipated. Since this is a day-night match, it would be intriguing to observe how the wicket performs under the lights.
West Indies
Following their historic victory, West Indies will probably remain with their starting lineup.
Alick Athanaze, Brandon King, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (c & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Yannic Cariah, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, and Oshane Thomas are the probable starting XI.
England
The visitors put 325 on the board, so they probably wouldn’t alter that batting lineup. Depending on the surface, the bowling attack may need to be adjusted in one or more areas. Jos Buttler, the captain of England, needs runs.
Benjamin Duckett, Harry Brook, Philip Salt, Will Jacks, Zak Crawley, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Brydon Carse/Matthew Potts, Rehan Ahmed, and Gus Atkinson are the probable starting lineup.
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