The Redemption Arc: West Indies Eye Comeback in Grenada’s Crucial Second Test
The dust has barely settled on a bruising encounter in Barbados, where the West Indies suffered a resounding 159-run defeat at the hands of a formidable Australian side. This crushing loss marks a challenging start to their new World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, leaving captain Roston Chase and his men with an urgent need to regroup. Australia, spearheaded by Travis Head’s twin half-centuries, showcased their characteristic dominance, and now the series moves to the scenic shores of Grenada for a pivotal second Test.
St. George’s Beckons: Venue, Dates, and Crucial Timings
The stage for this high-stakes contest is the picturesque St. George’s in Grenada, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate cricket fans. The second Test match between the West Indies and Australia is scheduled to unfold from **July 3 to July 7, 2024**. For cricket enthusiasts in India, the action will kick off at **7:30 PM IST** each day, promising thrilling evening viewing. The all-important toss, which often sets the tone for a Test match, is slated for **7:00 PM IST**.
Catch the Action: Live Streaming Information for Indian Viewers
While fans in India won’t find the West Indies versus Australia Test series on traditional television channels, the entire thrilling encounter will be available for live streaming. Indian cricket aficionados can catch every ball and every strategic move exclusively on the **FanCode app and website**. This ensures that despite the absence of a live telecast, no moment of this intense Test series will be missed.
Team Dynamics: Predicted Lineups and Strategic Shifts
With the series on the line, both camps will be meticulously analyzing their strategies and player combinations. The West Indies will be desperate for a stronger showing, potentially looking for greater contributions from their top order, including Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell. The all-round prowess of skipper Roston Chase will be crucial, while the explosive talent of Shamar Joseph could be pivotal in creating breakthroughs.
**Here’s a look at the likely playing XIs for the second Test:**
**West Indies (Predicted XI):** Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican (vc), Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
**Australia (Predicted XI):** Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
Australia, having secured a comfortable victory, might opt for continuity, leveraging the momentum built by their powerful pace battery of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, complemented by the spin wizardry of Nathan Lyon. The batting lineup, featuring the likes of Usman Khawaja and the in-form Travis Head, looks settled and potent.
Deeper Benches: Full Squads for the Test Series
Both nations have assembled strong squads, reflecting the depth of talent available for this crucial WTC cycle. The strategic flexibility offered by these expanded rosters could be vital if injuries or tactical changes are needed as the series progresses.
**West Indies Test Squad:** Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Kevlon Anderson, Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales.
**Australia Test Squad:** Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Notably, players like Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, stalwarts of the Australian batting lineup, are part of the broader squad, highlighting the formidable challenge facing the Windies.
Series at a Glance: Results and Remaining Fixtures
The three-match Test series is a critical component of the World Test Championship, with every point vital.
* **1st Test:** June 25-29, Bridgetown, Barbados (**Australia beat West Indies by 159 runs**)
* **2nd Test:** July 3-7, St George’s, Grenada
* **3rd Test:** July 12-16, Kingston, Jamaica
The West Indies will be desperate to level the series in Grenada before heading to Kingston, Jamaica, for the final showdown. The pressure is undoubtedly on the home side to demonstrate their resilience and prevent a dominant Australian sweep.
