Windies vs England, 1st ODI Preview: Daunting challenge awaits for the hosts after a high in Tests

With the number of attacking batsmen available on both sides, this series could rather end up being a significantly high-scoring affair.

Published - 20 Feb 2019, 10:18 IST | Updated - 20 Feb 2019, 10:18 IST

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After many years of struggle, Windies finally managed to register a big series win against England and the way they outmuscled their opponents in the first two Tests reminded people of the great Caribbean sides that once scared everyone. That was a perfect start to an all-important series and now the limited overs challenge awaits.

Although they do like playing in coloured jerseys, one cannot forget a fact that England are on a golden run in the ODI format and to replicate their heroics from the longer version will be a daunting task. With the World Cup looming on the horizon, Windies would definitely love this challenge which can determine how far they’ll go when the main tournament starts.

With the number of attacking batsmen available on both sides, this series could rather end up being a significantly high-scoring affair. The hosts will be without Shannon Gabriel, who was banned after his unethical sledge against Joe Root.

Playing Combinations

Windies

Chris Gayle might open alongside John Campbell, with Shai Hope, Darren Bravo and Nicholas Pooran coming in the middle-order. The lower middle order will constitute Ashley Nurse and skipper Jason Holder. Kemar Roach, Sheldon Cottrell and Oshane Thomas will take up the fast bowling responsibilities alongside their skipper. Devendra Bishoo will be the lone spinner in the XI.

Predicted XI: Chris Gayle, John Campbell, Shai Hope (wk), Darren Bravo, Nicholas Pooran, Ashley Nurse, Jason Holder (c), Devendra Bishoo, Sheldon Cottrell, Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas.

India

The swashbuckling Jason Roy and the ever-consistent Jonny Bairstow will open for the English, with Joe Root, Eoin Morgan, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler coming in the middle order. Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes will play the finishing role and one among Tom Curran or David Willey will accompany them. Mark Wood and Woakes will kick-start with the new ball with Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali handling spin department.

Predicted XI: Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (c), Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Tom Curran/David Willey, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.

Focus will be on

Chris Gayle (Windies)

Needless to say, the Universe Boss will be hogging a lot of limelight especially after his announcement that he will retire from ODIs after the 2019 World Cup. Windies side needs his experience to get the better of this rampant English unit and it will come as no surprise if he walks his way into the World Cup squad despite missing out on a lot of fixtures in recent years.

Jonny Bairstow (England)

Jonny Bairstow’s versatile nature with the willow in hand makes him a priceless prospect. He still remains highly underrated despite adding humongous value to the side and the underrated status will definitely blow away given he does a good job in the World Cup which his country will be hosting in a few months time.