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The historic rivalry between West Indies and Australia returns to the Caribbean as the two sides will kick off their three-Test series at Kensington Oval, Barbados, on June 25, 2025. This series, a crucial part of the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship, promises high-voltage cricket as both teams look to make an early statement in the new cycle. While the West Indies will be eager to reclaim the Frank Worrell Trophy on home soil, Australia arrive with a point to prove, albeit with a squad missing some of its established stars.
Australian lineup faces the test of depth
Australia will enter the first Test without two of their stalwarts Steve Smith is sidelined due to a finger injury sustained during the recent World Test Championship final, and Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped after a prolonged dip in form. Smith’s absence leaves a significant void in the middle order, while Labuschagne’s omission ends his streak of consecutive Tests since 2019, reflecting a tough selection call based on his recent struggles, including a low average of 16.16 in 2025. In their place, Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis have been recalled, bringing fresh energy but less experience. Konstas, a promising opener, impressed during the India series, while Inglis boasts a century on Test debut in Sri Lanka. This reshuffle means Australia will rely heavily on Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, and others to stabilize the batting line-up.
3 key battles to look out in AUS vs WI 1st test:
1. Kraigg Brathwaite vs Mitchell Starc
West Indies batter Kraigg Brathwaite, known for his stoic resilience at the top, faces the express pace and swing of Starc. In their previous encounters, Brathwaite averages 35.2 against Australia but has been dismissed by Starc four times in six matches. Starc, who has 333 Test wickets at an average of 27.4, will look to exploit any early movement in Barbados, making this a classic contest between a patient opener and a relentless left-arm quick.
2. Sam Konstas vs Alzarri Joseph
With Labuschagne out, Sam Konstas takes on the responsibility of opening alongside Khawaja. Konstas, having shown promise with a gritty 60 on debut against India, will face the fiery West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph, who has 85 wickets in 27 Tests at a strike rate of 52. Joseph’s ability to generate bounce and pace on Caribbean pitches makes this a compelling duel between a young Australian opener and a proven fast bowler eager to exploit home conditions.
3. Cameron Green vs Jomel Warrican
Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green, who averages 39.2 with the bat and has taken 45 wickets in 21 Tests, will be crucial in both departments. He faces West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican, who has 25 wickets in 10 Tests at an average of 32.8. Warrican’s ability to extract turn and bounce on Caribbean pitches poses a significant challenge for Green, who has struggled against quality spin in the past, averaging just 27.5 against spinners. This battle will test Green’s technique and temperament against Warrican’s guile and control.
