No drastic measures were taken as the West Indies’ selectors decided to keep faith with the batting lineup that was skittled for 100 runs in a lopsided first Test against India in the Caribbean on Sunday. Only one change was made in the 15-men squad for the second Test with fast bowler Miguel Cummins who failed to take a wicket in Antigua making way for all-rounder Keemo Paul.
Paul was the first choice before an ankle injury ruled him out of the first Test at Antigua. The all-rounder was seen taking the field as a substitute fielder in India’s second innings, giving clear indications that he has recovered from the injury and in all likelihood will feature in the playing XI for the second Test at Jamaica starting on Friday.
West Indies’ top order was especially disappointing. Openers Kraigg Brathwaite (14 and 1) and John Campbell (23 and 7) went cheaply, while numbers three and four Shamarh Brooks (11 and 2) and Darren Bravo (18 and 2) did not contribute much either.
The West Indies Cricket Board, however, decided to back their batsmen despite open criticism from captain Jason Holder, who had described the effort of his batsman as ‘very disappointing’.
India won the first test by 318 runs, with West Indies dismissed for 222 in the first innings before making only 100 in their second knock.
