First ODI preview: West Indies vs New Zealand
Having been competitive in the ODIs against India, the West Indies might hope the switch of format helps them get back into the bilateral battle.
New Zealand have all the momentum and can’t stop winning across all formats despite using heavy squad rotation.
West Indies vs New Zealand | First ODI | Wednesday 17 August 2022 | Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados
West Indies
Brandon King returns and should resume what had been a fruitful partnership with Kyle Mayers at the top of the order.
It remains to be seen if Jason Holder is used in a floating role in the batting order in a bid to get the most out of the allrounder.
Nicholas Pooran captain’s and might take the gloves although with Shai Hope in the squad there are other options.
Young Gudakesh Motie is a surprise inclusion in the squad but Pooran hasn’t always used spin well so he might not get the chance he needs to prove himself.
New Zealand
New Zealand have some heavy-hitters and big scorers in their ranks but it will be interesting to see if Tom Latham or Devon Conway open the batting alongside Martin Guptill.
Kane Williamson is looking to find for with the bat after a fair time out of the game and the format could be ideal for him to spend some time in the middle.
Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham and Michael Bracewell provide the Black Caps with big time finishing power and they just need a base to work from.
Lockie Ferguson can use this series to press his claim for a 2023 World Cup squad place amid furious competition between seamers.
Verdict: New Zealand
New Zealand should have too much.
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