24 July 2020 12:10 am
England came from behind to level the three-Test series against the West Indies at Old Trafford last week and now they will hope to close the series out in the decider which begins at the same venue today.
England will have their reputation on the line as they walk out to meet the West Indies for the third time this month with the series level 1-1. After a disappointing loss in Southampton, the hosts were back in the groove in Manchester and will now want to ensure there are no further hiccups.
The West Indies, on the other hand, are on the verge of a historic series win. They had their moments at Old Trafford but conceded a loss after some listless batting on the final day. If they do manage to win, it will be West Indies’ first Test series win in England since 1988. The visitors have some questions regarding their starting line-up with Shai Hope out of form and Shannon Gabriel having fitness concerns. There will also be the temptation to play Rahkeem Cornwall on what is expected to be a slower wicket given that it is the second successive match at the venue.
England, despite their big win have not settled on their starting XI. The major concern is regarding which fast bowlers to pick with James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, Sam Curran and Chris Woakes all available. The batting group is likely to be unchanged.
All said and done, the weather could once again be a talking point at Manchester. A day was lost in the second Test and the forecast isn’t too promising for the third Test either. At Old Trafford last week, England were clearly the superior side, showing immense patience early on before stamping down their advantage in the last two days with some brilliant tactical nous.
West Indies do not have a great record in recent times in Manchester. Since 2000, they have drawn one and lost three matches at the venue. Their last win here came in 1988 when they went on to win the series.
The teams
England (Probable XI): Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Zak Crawley, Joe Root (Captain), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Jos Buttler, Dom Bess, Jofra Archer, Stuart Broad and James Anderson.
West Indies (Probable XI): John Campbell, Kraigg Brathwaite, Shai Hope, Shamarh Brooks, Roston Chase, Jermaine Blackwood, Jason Holder (Captain), Shane Dowrich, Rahkeem Cornwall, Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel.
(ICC)