Around a year ago, England faced their most disappointing ODI World Cup in India since 2015. That poor run hinted at the need for a shift in their white-ball approach, a sentiment only reinforced by their performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup. This West Indies tour marks another step toward rebuilding for the 2025 Champions Trophy, following early signs of change in the recent white-ball series against Australia.
Jos Buttler’s withdrawal from the tour due to a slow recovery from injury opens the door for Liam Livingstone’s first captaincy role. The squad sees a few familiar faces return, alongside newcomers Rehan Ahmed, Michael-Kyle Pepper, and Jafer Chohan. Also rejoining is Sam Curran, back in the ODI format after missing the Australian series. England will be watching closely to see how Ahmed and Chohan might fit into the wrist-spin role long held by Adil Rashid, while Pepper’s unconventional style could make him a valuable opening partner to Phil Salt. With Harry Brook and Jamie Smith resting, this tour gives England’s emerging players a chance to prove themselves. Livingstone, too, aims to solidify his place in the ODI setup.
The West Indies, meanwhile, are grappling with adapting their natural T20 style to the demands of ODI cricket. This struggle was evident in their recent series in Sri Lanka, where, aside from Sherfane Rutherford, most batters faltered in the first two ODIs, resulting in heavy losses. However, they recovered in a rain-shortened final game, securing victory with an over to spare. Known for stepping up against England on home soil, the Caribbean squad will rely on Shai Hope to anchor the batting order, with Rutherford’s recent form adding confidence to the lineup.
The return of Shimron Hetmyer bolsters the West Indies’ batting strength, complementing an experienced bowling squad well-suited to home conditions. With the series set in Antigua, conditions may determine the edge. Although West Indies possess more experience, England’s young squad presents a challenge in an environment where neither team holds a clear advantage.
Match Details:
- Date: Thursday, October 31, 14:00 local time, 23:30 IST
- Venue: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua
Pitch Outlook: The stadium has seen high-scoring games, but totals typically stay within the 275-300 range, making for competitive matches. England’s record 325-run total last December, successfully chased down by the West Indies, remains a rare high score.
Probable XIs:
England: Philip Salt (wk), Michael-Kyle Pepper, Will Jacks, Jordan Cox, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone (c), Dan Mousley, Sam Curran, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley.
West Indies: Evin Lewis, Brandon King, Shai Hope (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Hayden Walsh/Jayden Seales.