West Indies, England renew rivalry today

NORTH SOUND, Antigua, (CMC):

THE WEST Indies will be hoping that despite a 2-1 loss to Sri Lanka in their last One-Day International (ODI) series, they can take some momentum from winning their last game when they face an England side, looking for a fresh start at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium today in the opening game of their three-match series.

The West Indies face an ongoing challenge in adapting their T20-oriented mindset to the ODI format. Their recent tour of Sri Lanka highlighted this, with only Sherfane Rutherford offering resistance in an otherwise one-sided series loss.

Yet, the Caribbean team often find another level when hosting England.

Shai Hope remains the foundation of West Indies’ batting, but Rutherford’s improving form brings optimism. The return of Shimron Hetmyer boosts a batting order complemented by a bowling line-up tailored for home conditions.

Opener Evin Lewis will be on the hunt for more runs after scoring a century in the final ODI against Sri Lanka, while his opening partner, Brandon King, may find home conditions more favourable than he did in Sri Lanka.

Romario Shepherd may find himself back in the line-up to partner Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Gudakesh Motie.

Pitch conditions could be integral to the direction of this series, and while West Indies have more experience, England’s young squad is unpredictable enough to make the outcome tough to call.

England’s captain Jos Buttler is missing due to injury, and Liam Livingstone steps in as captain for the first time.

This squad has a more established core than the experimental group that played against Australia, featuring the return of all-rounder Sam Curran and the exciting inclusions of wrist spinners Rehan Ahmed and Jafer Chohan.

One of the more intriguing inclusions is Michael-Kyle Pepper, a dynamic batsman known for his unique style, which he has demonstrated in both the T20 Blast and The Hundred. Pepper could open with Phil Salt, bringing a new dimension to England’s top order.

With regulars Harry Brook and Jamie Smith rested, this tour is a prime opportunity for fringe players like Livingstone, who is eager to become a regular ODI option.