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The stage is set for a riveting clash between West Indies and England in the upcoming three-game ODI series, commencing on December 3 and concluding on December 9. The series, hosted by the picturesque West Indies islands, promises to be a spectacle of intense cricketing action, with both teams eager to make their mark following recent setbacks.
The first two encounters are slated to take place at the renowned Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on December 3 and 6, providing a breathtaking backdrop for what is expected to be an electrifying contest. The series will culminate at the historic Kensington Oval in Barbados on December 9, where the teams will battle for supremacy in the final clash.
The West Indies team aim for a fresh beginning following their inability to secure a spot in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. With a track record of 102 ODI encounters against England, they have emerged victorious in 44 matches. The most recent clash between the two teams occurred at the 2019 ODI World Cup in England. Notably, the Caribbeans claimed victory in their latest ODI series against England, a feat achieved way back in 2007.
Also READ: Ben Duckett reflects on England’s poor CWC 2023 campaign ahead of West Indies series
West Indies’ best playing XI for the ODI leg against England:
Stylish openers:
1. Brandon King: A dynamic right-handed batter, Brandon King is known for his aggressive style at the top of the order. With a powerful batting technique and an ability to score quickly, he provides a solid foundation for the West Indies innings.
2. Kjorn Ottley: Kjorn Ottley, a left-handed batter, complements King at the opening slot. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to anchor the innings, Ottley adds stability to the top order and can build partnerships effectively.
Solid middle-order:
3. Alick Athanaze: A promising young talent in West Indies cricket, Alick Athanaze is a stylish right-handed batter. His ability to play spin and pace with equal ease makes him a valuable asset in the middle order.
4. Shai Hope: A key player in the West Indies lineup, Shai Hope is a technically sound batter with the ability to play long innings. Known for his consistency and adaptability, Hope anchors the middle order and provides stability. Being a captain, the expectations are always high from him.
5. Keacy Carty: Keacy Carty, a right-handed batter, brings versatility to the middle order. Capable of playing aggressive shots or rotating the strike as needed, Carty adds depth to the batting lineup.
6. Shimron Hetmyer: Shimron Hetmyer is a dynamic left-handed batter known for his aggressive style. He can change the course of the game quickly and is a potent force in the middle order, capable of taking on the opposition’s bowlers.
Dynamic all-rounders:
7. Romario Shepherd: A talented all-rounder, Romario Shepherd contributes with both bat and ball. With the ability to hit big shots and pick up crucial wickets, he provides the team with a valuable balance in the middle overs.
8. Yannic Cariah: Yannic Cariah, another all-rounder in the lineup, adds depth to both batting and bowling departments. His utility as a spinner and a capable batting makes him a valuable asset.
Pace battery:
9. Alzarri Joseph: Alzarri Joseph, a right-arm fast bowler, brings pace and aggression to the West Indies bowling attack. Capable of generating bounce and swing, he is a key wicket-taker for the team.
10. Oshane Thomas: Oshane Thomas, a fiery right-arm fast bowler, is known for his express pace. Known for unsettling the opposition with his raw speed, Thomas provides the team with a genuine strike-bowling option.
Spin Arsenal:
11. Gudakesh Motie: Gudakesh Motie, a left-arm orthodox spinner, adds variety to the bowling attack. His ability to extract turn and control the flow of runs makes him a crucial component in the middle overs.
