The West Indies and England both lost their most recent Test series and are two groups seeking to build for the future.
A home loss to South Africa took the rub off recent strong performances in Test cricket at home but this series remains tough to call.
West Indies vs England | First Test | Tuesday 8 March – Saturday 12 March 2022 | Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua | 16:00
West Indies
The West Indies have had top-order troubles for some time, but they take on a side with similar woes in this series.
Shannon Gabriel is still on the shelf but the West Indies do have Kemar Roach and exciting prospect Jayden Seales ro lean on in the pace department.
Young Trinidad gloveman Joshua Da Silva is set to keep wicket for the West Indies who will also ask the 23-year-old to step up with the bat.
Left-arm wrist-spinner Veerasammy Permaul could prove to be the West Indies secret weapon against England.
England
While Joe Root and Ben Stokes are present and prepared to begin helping the rebuild after another disappointing Ashes, many other big names are absent.
Ben Foakes will get his opportunity to be the default wicketkeeper for England on this tour.
Mark Wood’s fitness is a massive question-mark for England who otherwise lack out and out pace apart from the inexperienced quick Saqib Mahmood.
England look set to rely heavily on Chris Woakes and there could also be a big part for veteran spinner Jack Leach to play.
Verdict: England
Even depleted they should be able to match the West Indies.
