West Indies Look for Batting Solutions To Avoid Series Defeat
Overview
After a tight game on Wednesday, Australia and West Indies will lock horns again in the 2nd T20I. Aussie bowlers did a tremendous job with the ball in hand, but their fielding let them down. Also, the struggle of their batters will worry them before the second game.
Wade’s rescue act down the order and Finch’s return to form will uplift their spirits. But, the top order needs to fire to give them a sense of stability in their batting order.
West Indies also had similar woes as the batters couldn’t capitalize on the starts they got. Moreover, if they had taken the two catches in the final over of the game, they might have emerged victorious in the first game.
Sheldon Cottrell led a spirited bowling performance to keep Australian batters on their toes. The other bowlers complimented him well. However, WI will be expecting their batting and fielding to compliment their bowling in the next game.
Weather and Conditions
An early shower is expected to interrupt the game. But, the overall forecast is not threatening. The temperature will stay on the lower side during the match time. On Gabba’s track, 160 will be a par first innings total.
Players To Keep An Eye On
David Warner returned in this series after a break and was taken out cheaply in the last game. He will be eager to spend some time in the middle to get back on track.
Brandon King played a match-winning knock in the CPL 2022 Final to take his team to the crowning glory. West Indies have a lot of hopes resting on him, and he would love to deliver in this game.
Key Matchups
Aaron Finch vs. Sheldon Cottrell
The Cricket world is well familiar with Finch’s struggle against left-arm inswing. Cottrell has the ability to bring the new ball back into the right-hander. Thereby, a fascinating contest awaits.
Nicholas Pooran vs. Adam Zampa
Australia’s premier spinner is going to challenge Pooran’s big-hitting ability with his accuracy and subtle variations.
Team News
West Indies
WI can consider bringing Even Lewis in at the expense of Johnson Charles.
Probable XI: Brandon King, Even Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Nicholas Pooran (c & wk), Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Odean Smith, Raymon Reifer, Yannic Cariah, Alzarri Joseph, Sheldon Cottrell
Australia
As Steve Smith might return to the team, Cameron Green is expected to miss out.
Probable XI: David Warner, Aaron Finch (c), Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Matthew Wade (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
What They Said?
“Both teams if they are honest, were sloppy. We were lucky to get across the line. We knew the pitch will be a challenge at the halfway mark.”
Aussie skipper Aaron Finch acknowledged an ordinary day in the field for both sides.
“Really pleased with how Mayers batted, Cariah on debut, and Joseph bowling really well today. Maybe if we had taken the catch in the last over, we could’ve won, but we learn from it, accept it, embrace it and move on.”
Nicholas Pooran rued missed opportunities for not being able to clinch a close game.
