West Indies’ batting struggles have been evident as soon as once more as they confronted an inexperienced Cricket Australia XI on the primary day of a three-day warm-up match in Adelaide.
Regardless of promising begins, the West Indies batsmen did not capitalize in opposition to a CA XI devoid of gamers with Take a look at expertise, elevating considerations concerning the group’s readiness for the upcoming Take a look at collection in opposition to Australia.
Opting to bat first on a dry Karen Rolton wicket, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who had proven his class of their earlier Take a look at collection in Australia, contributed 52 runs on the prime of the order.
Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves, each vying for a Take a look at debut, posted scores of 52 and 62, respectively, showcasing their readiness for the format.
Dismissals that highlighted vulnerabilities
Nevertheless, the West Indies’ innings have been marred by dismissals that highlighted vulnerabilities. High-order batsmen Kirk McKenzie (23) and Alick Athanaze (zero) have been each dismissed by short-pitched deliveries, drawing the eye of Australia’s seamers.
Brathwaite’s dismissal, as he tried a paddle-sweep off Doug Warren, additional compounded the problems because it marked a collapse of three wickets for 3 runs.
Late within the day, one other collapse ensued, with 4 wickets falling for simply eight runs, coinciding with the introduction of the second new ball. This got here after Hodge and Greaves had stabilized the innings, taking the rating to 223 for 4.
Liam Haskett led the CA XI’s bowling assault, 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 performed solely 9 first-class matches.
Seven uncapped gamers in 15-man squad
The considerations over the West Indies’ type are amplified by the truth that they may function no less than three debutants within the first Take a look at in opposition to Australia, with seven uncapped gamers of their 15-man squad. Former captain Jason Holder and all-rounder Kyle Mayers opted out of the tour to pursue Twenty20 alternatives.
Within the earlier summer time, West Indies have been convincingly defeated in two Checks in Australia, and solely 5 gamers from that tour are within the present squad.
The West Indies’ batting woes elevate questions on their preparedness as they head into the difficult two-Take a look at collection in opposition to Australia.
