The first test match loss for England was the shock for many of us, with the return of their regular captain Joe Root the hosts looks much stronger. As of now, West Indies are top of England and the series win is the next target for the travelers.
32 Years Manchester tale for the West Indies
The two teams are all set to play the second test in Manchester. The last time West Indies won in Manchester was 32 years ago in a turning pitch, but this time the conditions are different the pitch will be useful for the fast bowlers. Last time 32 years ago, England produced a turning pitch to over-shadow the world-class Caribbean bowling attack which included Courtney Walsh, Curtly Ambrose, and Malcolm Marshall. West Indies won the test match by an innings and 156 runs with Malcolm Marshall taking seven wickets in the second innings.
Windies might go with the same team
The current visitor side comprises another fearless fast bowling attack, with Jason Holder and Shannon Gabriel in-charge of their bowling attack. Gabriel took 9 wicket haul in the last test match while Captain Holder took 7 wickets which included a 6 wicket haul in the first innings. The Windies may go with the same side but they might consider an extra off-spinner, addition of Rahkeem Cornwall in the playing 11 is one option, if the Old Trafford surface has typical bounce and rough. Holder confirmed the opener John Campbell is good to go for the this test match after being struck on the toe in the first test match.
The hosts are all set to make three changes
The English side is all set to make 3 changes with Captain Root coming back for Joe Denly, Stuart Broad for James Anderson, and left-arm pacer Sam Curran for Mark Wood. In 7 weeks Joe Root’s team has to play 6 test matches including the Pakistan series. So, at the same time, the rotation of players is also important for the hosts. West Indies are leading the series by 1-0 if hosts want to win the series they have to win this test match.
