West Indies Face Batting Struggles in Warm-up Match Ahead of Australia Test Series
The West Indies cricket team’s batting vulnerabilities were once again laid bare in a three-day warm-up match against an inexperienced Cricket Australia XI in Adelaide.
Despite positive starts from key players, the team found themselves struggling against a Cricket Australia XI devoid of any Test experience.
Opting to bat first on the Karen Rolton wicket, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite led from the front with a commendable 52 at the top of the order.
Kavem Hodge and Justin Greaves further showcased their potential with scores of 52 and 62, respectively, making a compelling case for a Test debut.
Brathwaite’s dismissal, attempting a paddle-sweep against Doug Warren, likely raised eyebrows.
The captain’s departure marked a collapse of three wickets for just three runs.
Another setback came later in the day, with a collapse of four wickets for eight runs around the second new ball, despite Hodge and Greaves steadying the innings initially and taking the score to 223 for 4.
Liam Haskett emerged as the tormentor-in-chief for the Cricket Australia XI, leading the bowling attack with figures of three for 57.
Jack Nisbet and Doug Warren supported with two wickets each, highlighting the inexperience of the opposition bowlers who collectively boasted a mere nine first-class matches among them.
The West Indies’ struggles with the bat add to the mounting concerns over their form heading into the two-Test series against Australia.
With at least three debutants expected to feature in the first Test in Adelaide next week and seven uncapped players in their 15-man squad, the once-proud Caribbean team faces an uphill battle.
Former captain Jason Holder and all-rounder Kyle Mayers opted out of the tour, further depleting the team’s experience.
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