The first Test between West Indies and Bangladesh kicks off on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua. With both teams aiming to climb the ICC Test rankings, this match promises to be an exciting clash of tactics and talent.
Match Details
- Match: WI vs BAN, 1st Test, Bangladesh tour of West Indies, 2024
- Date: Friday, November 22, 2024 – Wednesday, November 27, 2024
- Time: 7:30 PM IST / 10:00 AM Local Time
- Venue: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua
- Broadcast: Live Streaming on FanCode
Team Previews
West Indies Preview
West Indies, under the leadership of Kraigg Brathwaite, will aim to capitalize on home advantage. Despite missing all-rounder Jason Holder due to a shoulder injury, the Windies have bolstered their squad with the inclusion of Justin Greaves and Kevin Sinclair. The team will heavily rely on their experienced players, including pacers Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph, to provide breakthroughs.
Key Players:
- Kraigg Brathwaite: The skipper will anchor the batting lineup and set the tone for the Windies’ innings.
- Alzarri Joseph: With pace and control, he will be a crucial weapon on the Antigua pitch.
- Jayden Seales: The young pacer can exploit the early movement and trouble Bangladesh’s top order.
Strengths:
A potent pace attack, bolstered by home conditions, gives the Windies an edge. The team also boasts experienced batters who can stabilize the innings.
Concerns:
Inconsistent batting performances in recent Tests might leave the middle order vulnerable under pressure.
Bangladesh Preview
Bangladesh, led by Nazmul Hossain Shanto, are looking to bounce back after a disappointing home series against South Africa. The absence of veteran Mushfiqur Rahim is a setback, but the return of Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Jaker Ali adds depth to the squad. Bangladesh will rely on their spinners, particularly Mehidy Hasan Miraz, to exploit the conditions.
Key Players:
- Nazmul Hossain Shanto: The captain and a dependable batter who will be key in holding the innings together.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: A dynamic all-rounder capable of contributing with both bat and ball.
- Taskin Ahmed: His ability to swing the ball early on will test the Windies’ top order.
Strengths:
A balanced bowling attack with a mix of pace and spin offers Bangladesh flexibility in adapting to conditions.
Concerns:
The batting lineup has struggled for consistency, especially against quality pace bowling on foreign pitches.
Pitch Report: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
The pitch at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium generally favors bowlers in the early stages of the match. Seamers will enjoy movement and bounce on the first couple of days, while spinners come into play as the game progresses. Batters will need to apply themselves to build partnerships.
- Conditions for Bowlers: Fast bowlers will dominate the early sessions. Spinners might find assistance on Days 4 and 5.
- Conditions for Batsmen: The first innings will offer relatively easier batting conditions once the new ball is negotiated.
- Expected Average Scores:
- 1st innings: 280–300
- 2nd innings: 260–280
Weather Report
- Temperature: 24°C–30°C
- Humidity: Moderate (65-75%)
- Rain Forecast: Slight chances of brief showers, but overall, a full game is expected.
- Wind: Mild breeze aiding seam movement in the morning sessions.
Squads
West Indies Squad:
Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Joshua Da Silva (wk), Mikyle Louis, Keacy Carty, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Alzarri Joseph, Jomel Warrican, Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph, Kevin Sinclair, Anderson Phillip, Tevin Imlach, Kemar Roach.
Bangladesh Squad:
Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Shahadat Hossain Dipu, Jaker Ali, Taijul Islam, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Murad, Mahidul Islam Ankon.
Head-to-Head Stats (Test Matches)
- Total Matches Played: 20
- West Indies Wins: 14
- Bangladesh Wins: 4
- Draws: 2
Predictions
Score Prediction
- If West Indies Bat First: 289+
- If Bangladesh Bat First: 295+
Winning Chances
- West Indies: 66%
- Bangladesh: 34%
Who Will Win?
Predicted Winner: West Indies
West Indies hold the edge in home conditions, backed by their potent pace attack and Bangladesh’s inconsistency on foreign soil.
Disclaimer: This prediction is for entertainment purposes only. Cricketwebs does not encourage betting or gambling. While our experts strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee a 100% correct prediction. Enjoy the game responsibly!