WI vs AUS, 1st Test: Playing XIs Announced; Konstas Returns for Australia, Shai Hope Back for West Indies

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between West Indies and Australia as both sides announced their playing XIs for the 1st Test, beginning Wednesday, June 25, at the historic Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. This match kicks off Australia’s month-long tour of the Caribbean, which includes three Tests and five T20Is.

WI vs AUS, 1st Test: Playing XIs Announced; Konstas Returns for Australia, Shai Hope Back for West Indies

With some surprising inclusions and returns, this Test marks a new chapter for both teams.

🏏 Match Preview: WI vs AUS 1st Test 2025

After a competitive WTC final campaign and some reshuffling due to injuries and form, Australia begins their Caribbean tour with a fresh-looking squad. Meanwhile, West Indies, led by a new Test captain, are eager to make a mark on home soil.

📋 Australia’s Playing XI: Key Inclusions and Omissions

Australia has announced a strong lineup with a few notable changes:

✅ Key Inclusions:

• Sam Konstas returns after debuting during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2024.

• Josh Inglis replaces Steve Smith, who is out with a fractured finger sustained during the WTC final against South Africa.

❌ Key Omissions:

• Steve Smith (Injury)

• Marnus Labuschagne (Dropped due to poor form)

🏏 Australia’s Playing XI:

1. David Warner

2. Sam Konstas

3. Travis Head

4. Josh Inglis (wk)

5. Cameron Green

6. Mitchell Marsh

7. Alex Carey

8. Pat Cummins (c)

9. Mitchell Starc

10. Nathan Lyon

11. Josh Hazlewood

This lineup combines experience with promising talent, aiming to continue Australia’s legacy in the Caribbean.

🧢 West Indies Squad: New Captain, New Hopes

The West Indies have taken a bold step by appointing Roston Chase as the new Test captain. This will be his first Test in two years and also his debut as skipper.

📈 Key Inclusions:

• Shai Hope returns to the Test setup with hopes of stabilizing the middle order.

• John Campbell makes a comeback to the top order.

• Brandon King is all set to make his Test debut.

🏏 West Indies Playing XI:

1. Kraigg Brathwaite

2. John Campbell

3. Brandon King

4. Roston Chase (c)

5. Shai Hope

6. Kyle Mayers

7. Joshua Da Silva (wk)

8. Jason Holder

9. Alzarri Joseph

10. Gudakesh Motie

11. Kemar Roach

This squad brings back seasoned players and blends in fresh energy with debutants to take on the Aussie challenge.

☁️ Weather & Pitch Report: Kensington Oval

• Conditions: Hot and humid with scattered showers expected across five days.

• Pitch Nature: Traditionally offers good bounce and carry early on but tends to slow down as the match progresses.

• Spinners & Seamers: Both types of bowlers will have a role to play, especially as the pitch wears.

⚖️ Match Prediction: Who Has the Edge?

Australia may have the historical edge, but with a new-look lineup and some key changes, there are variables in play.

Australia:

• Strength: Depth in pace attack and solid lower-order batting.

• Concern: Inexperienced top-order due to Smith and Labuschagne’s absence.

West Indies:

• Strength: Home advantage and a balanced side.

• Concern: Lack of recent red-ball experience among key players.

Predicted Result:

Read here full article :- WI vs AUS Match Prediction

🌟 Final Words

The WI vs AUS 1st Test 2025 promises to be an exciting start to a competitive series. With fresh faces like Brandon King and Sam Konstas stepping into the spotlight, and seasoned stars like Pat Cummins and Jason Holder leading their sides, fans can expect thrilling cricket at the Kensington Oval.

This Test offers plenty of action, surprises, and opportunities as two proud cricketing nations clash once again.