New Delhi [India], June 25: West Indies and Australia have confirmed their playing XIs for the opening Test of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle, set to begin on Wednesday in Barbados. The match also marks the start of the three-match series for the prestigious Frank Worrell Trophy.
The West Indies have introduced several fresh faces in their lineup. Brandon King earns his Test debut after impressive white-ball performances, while Shai Hope makes his return to the red-ball format for the first time since 2021 and will take over wicketkeeping duties. John Campbell has also been recalled to open alongside Kraigg Brathwaite.
The Caribbean bowling attack features a pace trio of Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales, supported by all-rounder Justin Greaves and spinner Jomel Warrican. Skipper Roston Chase expressed optimism, saying the team aims to bring back the signature flair of Caribbean cricket.
“We’re looking to play with a bit more flair and bring back that Caribbean style to the game,” Chase said.
For Australia, captain Pat Cummins had earlier confirmed that Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis would replace Steve Smith (injured) and Marnus Labuschagne (dropped). Konstas is set to open with Usman Khawaja, while Cameron Green continues at No.3.
Inglis will take the No.4 spot, followed by Travis Head and Beau Webster. Alex Carey returns as wicketkeeper, while the bowling quartet of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, and Lyon remains unchanged from the recent World Test Championship Final.
Playing XIs
West Indies:
- Kraigg Brathwaite
- John Campbell
- Keacy Carty
- Brandon King
- Roston Chase (c)
- Shai Hope (wk)
- Justin Greaves
- Jomel Warrican
- Alzarri Joseph
- Shamar Joseph
- Jayden Seales
Australia:
- Usman Khawaja
- Sam Konstas
- Cameron Green
- Josh Inglis
- Travis Head
- Beau Webster
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood