Cornwall set to return in WI Playing XI after 2 years, Athanaze to debut in 1st Test

After a disappointing ICC World Cup Qualifiers, the West Indies will shift their focus to red-ball cricket. The Islanders are set to host India for a multi-format series, starting on July 12. The first Test between India and the West Indies will kick off in Dominica on Wednesday. Team India, who enjoy a dominant record against the Windies, will aim to secure a winning start to the new WTC cycle.

In recent years, India has established themselves as a formidable force not only at home but overseas tours as well. Out of the eight series played in the last three years, India has lost only one, with their only defeat coming against South Africa in December 2021.

Also Read: Debate over Kishan vs Bharat in India Playing XI for 1st Test, Jaiswal to debut

Despite the West Indies’ historical dominance in cricket, India has remained unbeaten against them for over two decades, with their last defeat in the Caribbean coming way back in 2002.

With the depth and experience Team India have, they will be favourites to take the two-match Test series.

The West Indies, on the other hand, are going through a decline. While the Kraigg Brathwaite-led side has shown some promising performances at home, they have struggled to maintain consistency.

However, the West Indies bowling attack, featuring Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, and Shannon Gabriel, possesses the potential to pose a threat to the Indian batting line-up.

Cornwall, who made his Test debut against India back in 2019, has returned to Test squad after 2 years. Cornwall has been in sensational form this season, being the highest wicket-taker in first class cricket.

The WI will see a new face in batter Alick Athanaze who is likely to make his debut after an impressive domestic season.

IND vs WI 1st Test: What to expect in West Indies Playing XI?

Jason Holder is set to keep his place despite recent poor outings.

Veteran pacer Kemar Roach will lead the bowling attack for WI against India.

Alick Athanaze is most likely to make his debut in IND vs WI 1st Test.

Skipper Kraigg Brathwaite and talented Tagenarine Chanderpaul will open the innings.

Joshua Da Silva will keep wickets in the 1st Test.

Rahkeem Cornwall will have a point to prove as he will return to Playing XI after 2 years

Hello Dominica 🇩🇲 West Indies arrive for the 1st Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Match powered by Yes Bank at Windsor Park#MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/rIcjImwiyF — Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 9, 2023

Also Read: Jaiswal nails opening slot, Dravid-Rohit mull Shubman at No 3 in 1st Test

West Indies Playing XI vs IND 1st Test

1. Kraigg Brathwaite (C)

2. Tagenarine Chanderpaul

3. Alick Athanaze

4. Jermaine Blackwood

5. Raymon Reifer

6. Rahkeem Cornwall

7. Joshua Da Silva (WK)

8. Jason Holder

9. Alzarri Joseph

10. Kemar Roach

11. Shannon Gabriel

WI Squad India Tests: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice Captain), Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva (wicketkeeper), Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kirk McKenzie, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach, Jomel Warrican

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