South Africa’s decision to bolster their batting lineup with Ryan Rickelton at No. 6 has resulted in a 7-4 split in their playing XI for the opening Test against West Indies in Trinidad. The move forced the Proteas to bench a bowler, with left-arm seamer Nandre Burger missing out.
Wiaan Mulder will operate as the third seamer alongside Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, while Keshav Maharaj will be the lone specialist spinner. West Indies, on the other hand, have handed a debut to batter Keacy Carty and opted for a twin spin combination of Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican. Shamar Joseph has been omitted from the XI.
Kemar Roach returns to the West Indies side after missing the series against Australia earlier this year and will lead the attack in the absence of Alzarri Joseph. Both teams are eager to revive their World Test Championship campaigns, with South Africa currently seventh and West Indies ninth in the standings.
South Africa’s batting lineup boasts a mix of experience and youth, with Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, and Tristan Stubbs at the top of the order. Temba Bavuma will captain the side, while David Bedingham and Ryan Rickelton provide depth in the middle order. Kyle Verreynne will don the wicketkeeping gloves.
West Indies’ batting lineup will be led by Kraigg Brathwaite, who will open alongside Mikyle Louis. Keacy Carty will make his Test debut at No. 3, followed by Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, and Jason Holder. Joshua Da Silva will be responsible for the wicketkeeping duties.
The bowling attack for West Indies will be spearheaded by Kemar Roach, who has 253 Test wickets to his name. Jayden Seales, Gudakesh Motie, and Jomel Warrican will provide support.
The match marks the first Test between South Africa and West Indies in Trinidad since 2005. West Indies have not beaten South Africa in a home Test since 2001 and have not won a Test against them in 17 years.
