The 2019 ICC World Cup has so far tested the patience of many. Be it the players or the spectators, most of the lot seem to cut a frustrated figure with as many as five games already being washed out so far. So, it’s no surprise that everyone will be hoping for some cricket action when hosts England take on the West Indies in Southampton on Friday.
England come into this tie on the back of a convincing win over Bangladesh. After an unexpected loss to Pakistan, the Three Lions were on top as they first put up 386 for six on board and then bundled them out for 280.
Unlike in the two games before, the openers – including Johnny Bairstow – negated the Bangladeshi spin threat to give them a perfect start, as Jason Roy stroked his way to 153. While Stokes has been giving some priceless overs with the ball, Moeen Ali is likely to return in the playing eleven, considering the number of left handers in the West Indies line-up. Wicketkeeper batsman Jos Buttler has recovered from hip injury and should be fit to play.
On the other hand, the West Indies' bowlers might have lit up the tournament so far, but it was the lack of application on the batting front that cost them the game against Australia. And coupled that with some umpiring howlers, it was not an evening to remember for the side from the Caribbean against the defending champions. And it would be no surprise if the Windies come all come blazing against England.
However, it’s on the batting front that the Windies have struggled so far. Against Australia, though they were hard done by the umpires, the Jasoan Holder-led side did well to stay in the game for long, but with the scoring rate climbing high, the pressure seemed to get the better of them, and eventually hurt them. It’s an area that the team will be hoping to work upon against England on Friday.
Andre Russell’s fitness will be their biggest concern after he hobbled off the field against Australia and missed the rained-out South Africa game. Darren Bravo will play again if Russell misses out.
Feature image courtesy: AFP image/ Adrian Dennis
