England’s advantage in preparation over the West Indies proved to be a non-factor in the first Test.
The West Indies cantered to victory in the final session at the Rose Bowl despite predictions from Caribbean greats that the team would fade as the match progressed.
Photo Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
What will follow is a trek up to England’s Northwest where they will play the final two tests of the series at Old Trafford.
Second Test | Thursday 16 July – Monday 20 July | Old Trafford, Manchester | 12:00 (scheduled start)
To Win
England 4/10
Draw 6/1
West Indies 7/2
England
England may rue their decision to bat first on an overcast day in the first Test but in doing so might miss an opportunity to address the fragility of their top order.
Skipper Joe Root is set to return which England might hope will shore up their suspect top order. They gave up a first innings deficit of 114 runs, and a comparison of where the two sides were once three wickets had fallen tells the tale of where England lost the first Test. England had 51 on the board, whereas the West Indies had amassed 140 when Kraigg Brathwaite was the third man out.
England have great depth of batting, helped by the presence of Ben Stokes in the middle order but won’t be among the world’s best sides until their top four produce.
Stuart Broad’s experience was missed by England as well, but it would be a tough call to drop any of the existing attack in Manchester. Jofra Archer went wicketless in the first innings but bounced back in the second, Dom Bess’ batting gives England a safety net at eight, but Mark Wood has cause for concern based on first Test performances.
West Indies
The West Indies will be delighted with the backbone shown by the team in chasing down a tricky target of 200 in the first Test.
Jermaine Blackwood was the hero of the chase, but several Windies players put their hands up at crucial moments.
Shannon Gabriel gave the West Indies attack teeth up front, and England discovered that as deep as they bat the tourists may bat deeper.
The Brathwaite and John Campbell opening partnership has shown promise without delivering the big runs skipper Jason Holder wants.
Holder himself is a key to the West Indies current resurgence as the number one-ranked allrounder in Test cricket.
Verdict: West Indies 7/2
The West Indies have the edge and should shade what should be a close match.
Written by James Richardson for Hollywoodbets
