NORTH SOUND, Antigua, CMC – The West Indies will look to capitalize on their game three win against Sri Lanka in their last ODI. This time, they face an England side looking for a fresh start at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Thursday in the opening game of their three-match series.
The West Indies face an ongoing challenge in adapting their T20-oriented mindset to the ODI format. Their recent tour of Sri Lanka highlighted this, with only Sherfane Rutherford offering resistance in an otherwise one-sided 2-1 series loss.
Yet, the Caribbean team often finds another level when hosting England, especially at home venues where fans add a unique energy.
Shai Hope remains the foundation of West Indies’ batting, but Rutherford’s improving form brings optimism. The return of Shimron Hetmyer boosts a batting order complemented by a bowling lineup tailored for home conditions.
Opener Evin Lewis will be on the hunt for more runs after scoring a century in the final ODI against Sri Lanka. At the same time, his opening partner, Brandon King, may find home conditions more favorable to start putting some scores together.
Romario Shepherd may be back in line to partner with Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Gudakesh Motie.
The pitch conditions could be a defining factor in this series. While West Indies have more experience, England’s young squad is unpredictable enough to make this series challenging to call.
England’s captain, Jos Buttler, is missing out due to injury, and Liam Livingstone steps in as captain for the first time.
This squad has a more established core than the experimental group that played against Australia. It features the return of all-rounder Sam Curran and the exciting inclusions of wrist spinners Rehan Ahmed and Jafer Chohan.
One of the more intriguing inclusions is Michael-Kyle Pepper, a dynamic batsman known for his unique style, which he has demonstrated in both the T20 Blast and The Hundred. Pepper could open with Phil Salt, bringing a new dimension to England’s top order.
With regulars Harry Brook and Jamie Smith rested, this tour is a prime opportunity for fringe players, including Livingstone, who is eager to solidify his ODI career, to make their case for future selection.
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