Lights, Camera, Action

Despite the deadline jitters regarding the readiness of the venue, the Jamaica Cricket Association and Cricket West Indies have confirmed that the stage is set and everything is in place for the first-ever day-night Test match at Sabina Park, with West Indies taking on Australia in a highly anticipated encounter starting today at 1:30 p.m. local time.

Despite Australia already sealing the three-match series, the encounter at the mecca of cricket in Jamaica is still expected to bring its fair share of excitement, as Jamaicans will get a chance to witness international night cricket and the pink dukes ball in action.

Both teams are said to have been adjusting to the unique twilight conditions, with Australia training under lights on Wednesday and the West Indies following suit on Thursday.

West Indies captain Roston Chase has shared his thoughts on the floodlights, which could prove crucial in the outcome.

“They’re bright, but I think they’re a bit low for my liking. Still, we have to work with what we have and it is no point complaining. We’ll adapt.”

This match marks only the second day-night Test in the Caribbean, following the 2018 clash between West Indies and Sri Lanka at Kensington Oval in Barbados. Chase revealed that the final eleven is still undecided but hinted at possible changes, including Mikyle Louis replacing opener Kraigg Brathwaite and left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican potentially coming back into the side.

“The top order has been a concern and we we need better starts. We will decide whether we play a spinner or stick with the extra seamer,” Chase said.

The Sabina Park surface typically has been a good cricket wicket. However, with cooler night conditions, the dukes ball is expected to do a bit and that could play right into the hands of the Australians, who have way more experience playing night Test cricket.

Australia’s formidable bowling attack boasts four bowlers with 37 or more wickets in pink-ball Tests, while West Indies’ Alzarri Joseph leads the hosts with 11. Chase, however, remains confident, expressing his love for playing at Sabina Park.

“I always enjoy cricket in Jamaica. The team loves the vibe here, the energy, the dancehall music, it’s special.”

The match also holds personal milestones, with Australia’s Mitchell Starc set to play his 100th Test and just five wickets away from 400 in the format. Despite the occasion, Starc said the fixture will be just another match, and he is hoping that the team can continue on their winning ways.

“It’s been a great couple of weeks, and 99 Tests makes me feel a bit old! But Sabina Park holds good memories, hopefully, we can make more this week.”

Australia won the first Test by 159 runs and the second by 133 for a 2-0 lead in the three-Test series.