Defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies succumbed to the third-lowest team total in T20 World Cup history in match 2 of the Super 12 round, versus 2016 runners-up England.&nbsp;

Opting to bowl first, Morgan &amp; Co. were off to a flier by reducing the Windies to 9-2 in 2 overs, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Saturday evening (October 23).&nbsp;

The Men in Maroon never managed to recover as they were quickly reduced 37-5 in no time and eventually fell for an embarrassing 55 all-out in 14.2 overs. Adil Rashid was the leading wicket-taker by returning with 4 for 2 whereas Moeen Ali picked up two crucial wickets as spinners dominated proceedings versus the world champions.&nbsp;

None apart from Chris Gayle managed to cross the double-digit score (14) as the big guns such as Pollard, Andre Russell, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Bravo, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer fell like nine pins.&nbsp;

Lowest team totals in T20 World Cup history:&nbsp;

Netherlands vs Sri Lanka 39&nbsp; 
Netherlands vs Sri Lanka 44&nbsp; 
West Indies vs England 55&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-trying-to-dig-something-virat-kohli-on-decision-to-leave-t20i-captaincy-423328">'People are trying to dig something': Virat Kohli on decision to leave T20I captaincy</a>

Given the shambolic performance from Windies, England will look to wrap up the match with plenty of overs to spare to bolster their net run-rate and start their campaign with a bang.

Defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies succumbed to the third-lowest team total in T20 World Cup history in match 2 of the Super 12 round, versus 2016 runners-up England.

Defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies succumbed to the third-lowest team total in T20 World Cup history in match 2 of the Super 12 round, versus 2016 runners-up England. Opting to bowl first, Morgan & Co. were off to a flier by reducing the Windies to 9-2 in 2 overs, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Saturday evening (October 23). The Men in Maroon never managed to recover as they were quickly reduced 37-5 in no time and eventually fell for an embarrassing 55 all-out in 14.2 overs. Adil Rashid was the leading wicket-taker by returning with 4 for 2 whereas Moeen Ali picked up two crucial wickets as spinners dominated proceedings versus the world champions. None apart from Chris Gayle managed to cross the double-digit score (14) as the big guns such as Pollard, Andre Russell, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Bravo, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer fell like nine pins. Lowest team totals in T20 World Cup history: Netherlands vs Sri Lanka 39 Netherlands vs Sri Lanka 44 West Indies vs England 55 ALSO READ | 'People are trying to dig something': Virat Kohli on decision to leave T20I captaincy Given the shambolic performance from Windies, England will look to wrap up the match with plenty of overs to spare to bolster their net run-rate and start their campaign with a bang.

T20 WC: Defending champions West Indies all-out for 55 vs England, third-lowest score in tournament history

Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Defending champions West Indies and England will be opening their respective campaigns with the clash.

England are heading into the game on the back of a loss and a win in their last two warm-up matches. They bounced bat to beat New Zealand in their second practice game after losing against India in the first one. Mark Wood's 4-wicket haul helped England beat the Kiwis by 13 runs.

West Indies, on the other hand, lost both their warm-up matches against Pakistan and Afghanistan respectively. The Kieron Pollard-led side will be hoping to not repeat their mistakes on Saturday and get off to a winning start against England.&nbsp;

West Indies might not have the momentum on their side but they remain one of the most formidable sides in T20 World Cup 2021 with a significant amount of talent in their ranks. They have some explosive hitters in their batting line-up ad all-rounders who can be game-changers with both the bat and the ball.

England and West Indies had last met in the T20 World Cup in the final of the 2016 showpiece event where the&nbsp;Men from the Caribbean came out on top after a close encounter. England are missing the likes of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;and are expected to face a tricky contest against West Indies.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-chris-gayle-a-look-at-players-who-have-featured-in-all-7-editions-of-t20-world-cup-so-far-423230">Rohit&nbsp;to&nbsp;Gayle: A look at players who have featured in all 7 editions of T20 World Cup so far</a>

England vs West Indies today match prediction:

West Indies have the upper hand over England when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams. They might have lost their last two warm-up matches but remain one of the most dangerous sides in the T20 World Cup. The two-time champions will be favourites to win against England on Saturday.

&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

Eoin Morgan-led England will be up against West Indies in the second game of the Super 12 stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (October 23). The match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Defending champions West Indies and England will be opening their respective campaigns with the clash. England are heading into the game on the back of a loss and a win in their last two warm-up matches. They bounced bat to beat New Zealand in their second practice game after losing against India in the first one. Mark Wood's 4-wicket haul helped England beat the Kiwis by 13 runs. West Indies, on the other hand, lost both their warm-up matches against Pakistan and Afghanistan respectively. The Kieron Pollard-led side will be hoping to not repeat their mistakes on Saturday and get off to a winning start against England. West Indies might not have the momentum on their side but they remain one of the most formidable sides in T20 World Cup 2021 with a significant amount of talent in their ranks. They have some explosive hitters in their batting line-up ad all-rounders who can be game-changers with both the bat and the ball. England and West Indies had last met in the T20 World Cup in the final of the 2016 showpiece event where the Men from the Caribbean came out on top after a close encounter. England are missing the likes of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes for the T20 World Cup and are expected to face a tricky contest against West Indies. Also Read: Rohit to Gayle: A look at players who have featured in all 7 editions of T20 World Cup so far England vs West Indies today match prediction: West Indies have the upper hand over England when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams. They might have lost their last two warm-up matches but remain one of the most dangerous sides in the T20 World Cup. The two-time champions will be favourites to win against England on Saturday.

ENG vs WI, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction today: Who will win England vs West Indies match?

Match 14 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Eoin Morgan-led England (ENG) take on the defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies (WI) on Saturday (October 23). The game will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

This will be the first match in the T20 World Cup for both the teams and the second match of the Super-12 stage. West Indies have lost both the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan whereas England won a close match against New Zealand and lost to India.

The last edition of T20 World Cup 2016 which was held in Kolkata saw both teams in the finals where West Indies won by 6 wickets. England would be looking to revenge its defeat on Saturday evening.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-kaif-reveals-which-team-will-be-under-more-pressure-between-india-and-pakistan-423243">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif reveals which team will be under more pressure between India and Pakistan</a>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: 

Where is the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies taking place? 

The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

What time does the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies begin? 

The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mentor-ms-dhoni-and-billion-cheers-jersey-why-indias-t20-world-cup-2021-campaign-will-be-remembered-forever-422991">Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies? 

The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between ENG vs WI will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

Match 14 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Eoin Morgan-led England (ENG) take on the defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies (WI) on Saturday (October 23).

Match 14 of the T20 World Cup edition will see the Eoin Morgan-led England (ENG) take on the defending champions Kieron Pollard-led West Indies (WI) on Saturday (October 23). The game will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. This will be the first match in the T20 World Cup for both the teams and the second match of the Super-12 stage. West Indies have lost both the warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Pakistan whereas England won a close match against New Zealand and lost to India. The last edition of T20 World Cup 2016 which was held in Kolkata saw both teams in the finals where West Indies won by 6 wickets. England would be looking to revenge its defeat on Saturday evening. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Kaif reveals which team will be under more pressure between India and Pakistan Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies taking place? The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. What time does the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies begin? The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday. IN PICS | Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies? The T20 World Cup match between England vs West Indies will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between ENG vs WI will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports.

T20 World Cup, ENG vs WI live streaming: When and where to watch England vs West Indies match?

Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022.

England will arrive in the Caribbean to play the first-ever five-match T20I Series between the two teams. All five matches in Barbados will be played across a nine-day period from January 22 to 30, 2022, including two consecutive weekends of back-to-back T20 cricket.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hilariously-mimics-shikhar-dhawans-batting-style-video-goes-viral-watch-421753">Virat Kohli hilariously mimics Shikhar Dhawan's batting style, video goes viral - WATCH</a>

"Following West Indies` white-ball tour of India in February 2022, the West Indies will welcome England back to the region for a three-match Test Series to compete for the newly created Richards-Botham Trophy. This new trophy honours two legends of cricket, Lord Ian Botham and Sir Vivian Richards, whose friendship and on-field heroics became synonymous with some of their respective teams greatest Test match moments," the ECB said in an official statement.

The Test Series will start at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground (SVRCG) in Antigua on March 8, 2022, before moving to the Kensington Oval in Barbados for the 2nd Test starting on March 16.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-shares-his-thoughts-on-ms-dhoni-mentoring-virat-kohli-led-team-india-in-t20-world-cup-421819">Gautam Gambhir shares his thoughts on MS Dhoni mentoring Virat Kohli-led Team India in T20 World Cup</a>

The 3rdTest match will commence on March 24 in Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium.CWI will welcome fully vaccinated England fans throughout the tour. Online ticket sales will commence in mid-November through CWI`s ticket platform.

West Indies v England T20I Series, all played at the Kensington Oval, Barbados:

Saturday, January 22 - 1st T20I West Indies v England

Sunday, January 23 - 2nd T20I West Indies v England

Wednesday, January 26 - 3rd T20I West Indies v England

Saturday, January 29 - 4th T20I West Indies v England

Sunday, January 30 - 5th T20I West Indies v England

March 8-12 - 1st Test Match West Indies v England at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua

March 16-20 - 2nd Test Match West Indies v England at Kensington Oval, Barbados

March 24-28 - 3rd Test Match West Indies v England at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada.&nbsp;

Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the match schedule and venues for England Men`s T20 Internationals and Test Tours of the West Indies in January and March 2022. England will arrive in the Caribbean to play the first-ever five-match T20I Series between the two teams. All five matches in Barbados will be played across a nine-day period from January 22 to 30, 2022, including two consecutive weekends of back-to-back T20 cricket. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli hilariously mimics Shikhar Dhawan's batting style, video goes viral - WATCH "Following West Indies` white-ball tour of India in February 2022, the West Indies will welcome England back to the region for a three-match Test Series to compete for the newly created Richards-Botham Trophy. This new trophy honours two legends of cricket, Lord Ian Botham and Sir Vivian Richards, whose friendship and on-field heroics became synonymous with some of their respective teams greatest Test match moments," the ECB said in an official statement. The Test Series will start at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground (SVRCG) in Antigua on March 8, 2022, before moving to the Kensington Oval in Barbados for the 2nd Test starting on March 16. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir shares his thoughts on MS Dhoni mentoring Virat Kohli-led Team India in T20 World Cup The 3rdTest match will commence on March 24 in Grenada at the National Cricket Stadium.CWI will welcome fully vaccinated England fans throughout the tour. Online ticket sales will commence in mid-November through CWI`s ticket platform. West Indies v England T20I Series, all played at the Kensington Oval, Barbados: Saturday, January 22 - 1st T20I West Indies v England Sunday, January 23 - 2nd T20I West Indies v England Wednesday, January 26 - 3rd T20I West Indies v England Saturday, January 29 - 4th T20I West Indies v England Sunday, January 30 - 5th T20I West Indies v England March 8-12 - 1st Test Match West Indies v England at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua March 16-20 - 2nd Test Match West Indies v England at Kensington Oval, Barbados March 24-28 - 3rd Test Match West Indies v England at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada.

England to tour West Indies for five T20Is, three Tests in early 2022

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The seventh edition&nbsp;will follow the template of the previous edition&nbsp;of 2016, held in India. The showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, where the top-two sides from the two groups will join the ten automatically qualified teams in the Super 12.

Ahead of all the action in the upcoming T20 World Cup, here's a look at some of the most epic encounters in the tournament-history:

1) India beat Pakistan by 5 runs in inaugural final: Winning the toss, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue opted to bat first in the 2007 edition's finale. Riding on Gautam Gambhir's 75 and Rohit Sharma's finishing skills, India posted a competitive 157-5 in 20 overs. In reply, Misbah-ul-Haq lifted Pakistan's spirits when they were down and out at 77-6 to narrow down the equation to 13 off 6 balls, with one wicket in hand. However, Joginder Sharma stood tall in the riveting final over as Misbah (38-ball 43)'s wicket led to Men in Green being all-out for 152 in 19.3 overs. Irfan Pathan was the Man-of-the-Match for his 3 for 16.

2) Netherlands beat England by 4 wickets:&nbsp;In the first match of the second edition, England lost to minnows Netherlands by four wickets. Riding on Luke Wright's 71 and Ravi Bopara's 46, England managed 162-5. While the Dutch were 23-2 and further reduced to 66-3, Tom de Grooth's 49, Peter Borren's 30 and Ryen ten Doeschate's 17-ball 22* took them home in a dramatic last-over finish. Stuart Broad failed to hold his nerves in the last over -- with&nbsp; an overthrow -- as Netherlands earned a last-ball win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-iconic-ad-on-indo-pak-rivalry-returns-as-countdown-begins-for-mouth-watering-face-off-420617">T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off</a>

3) Australia stun Pakistan in 2010 edition's semi-final: The then defending champions Pakistan locked horns with tournament-favourites Australia in the second semi-final, at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia. Aussies preferred to chase after winning the toss. Riding on Kamran and Umar Akmal's attacking half-centuries, Men in Green posted 191-6.&nbsp;

Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were on the back foot, at 62-4 in 8.2&nbsp;overs. However, Cameron White's brisk 31-ball 43 and Michael Hussey's match-winning 24-ball 60 took the Men in Yellow past the finish line. Hussey's 60 included 6 sixes and 3 fours, at a strike-rate of 250. Aussies hit 14 sixes compared to Pakistan's 8; being the difference between the two sides.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-team-indias-jersey-for-t20-world-cup-displayed-at-burj-khalifa-with-a-breathtaking-light-show-420660">Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show</a>

4) India beat South Africa in thrilling semi-final: In the second semi-final of the 2014 edition, Dhoni-led India faced Faf du Plessis' South Africa at Dhaka. Riding on Du Plessis' 58 and attacking knocks from JP Duminy and David Miller, Proteas posted 172-4. India started off nicely courtesy Rohit Sharma-Ajinkya Rahane, however, they still had lots to do in the last ten overs.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli timed his innings perfectly and took on the attack with Yuvraj Singh not being at his fluent best at the other end. The then vice-captain took on the pacers and handled Imran Tahir with ease, coming to the pitch of the ball and making excellent use of his footwork, to narrow down the equation to 40 off the last 24 balls. Suresh Raina's 10-ball 21 and Kohli's majestic 44-ball 72*, at a strike-rate of 163.64, took India to the final.

5) Carlos Brathwaite's 4 sixes takes Windies to their second title:&nbsp;Daren Sammy-led West Indies opted to bowl first in the 2016 edition's final, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, versus Eoin Morgan-led England. Sammy &amp; Co. restricted England to 155-9. Joe Root, Jos Buttler and David Willey's cameo took England to a healthy total whereas Windies' run-chase started off poorly; being 11-3 in no time. Marlon Samuels -- the Player-of-the-Match in the 2012 edition's final -- stood tall with his unbeaten 85 whereas Dwayne Bravo's 25-ball 27 narrowed down the equation to 19 off 6 balls.&nbsp;

Brathwaite, who was batting on 10 off 6 balls, took Sammy &amp; Co. home with four back-to-back sixes in the last over -- with two balls to spare -- as Windies stunned England and earned a win from the jaws of defeat.&nbsp;

Apart from these, many other humdingers have been witnessed in the T20 WC history. For instance, the India-Pakistan bowl-out clash in 2007, India-Australia 2016 virtual quarter-final encounter, Netherlands-Ireland's epic high-scoring tie in the qualifiers in 2014, India-Bangladesh tie in the 2016 edition, Super-over fixtures in 2012, involving New Zealand-Sri Lanka and the Black Caps-Windies.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The T20 World Cup 2021 is set to commence from October 17, in the UAE. After a year-long delay, the mega event will finally kick off in UAE after Australia couldn't host the edition last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The seventh edition will follow the template of the previous edition of 2016, held in India. The showpiece event will begin with the qualifying round, where the top-two sides from the two groups will join the ten automatically qualified teams in the Super 12. Ahead of all the action in the upcoming T20 World Cup, here's a look at some of the most epic encounters in the tournament-history: 1) India beat Pakistan by 5 runs in inaugural final: Winning the toss, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue opted to bat first in the 2007 edition's finale. Riding on Gautam Gambhir's 75 and Rohit Sharma's finishing skills, India posted a competitive 157-5 in 20 overs. In reply, Misbah-ul-Haq lifted Pakistan's spirits when they were down and out at 77-6 to narrow down the equation to 13 off 6 balls, with one wicket in hand. However, Joginder Sharma stood tall in the riveting final over as Misbah (38-ball 43)'s wicket led to Men in Green being all-out for 152 in 19.3 overs. Irfan Pathan was the Man-of-the-Match for his 3 for 16. 2) Netherlands beat England by 4 wickets: In the first match of the second edition, England lost to minnows Netherlands by four wickets. Riding on Luke Wright's 71 and Ravi Bopara's 46, England managed 162-5. While the Dutch were 23-2 and further reduced to 66-3, Tom de Grooth's 49, Peter Borren's 30 and Ryen ten Doeschate's 17-ball 22* took them home in a dramatic last-over finish. Stuart Broad failed to hold his nerves in the last over -- with an overthrow -- as Netherlands earned a last-ball win. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Iconic ad on Indo-Pak rivalry returns as countdown begins for mouth-watering face-off 3) Australia stun Pakistan in 2010 edition's semi-final: The then defending champions Pakistan locked horns with tournament-favourites Australia in the second semi-final, at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia. Aussies preferred to chase after winning the toss. Riding on Kamran and Umar Akmal's attacking half-centuries, Men in Green posted 191-6. Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were on the back foot, at 62-4 in 8.2 overs. However, Cameron White's brisk 31-ball 43 and Michael Hussey's match-winning 24-ball 60 took the Men in Yellow past the finish line. Hussey's 60 included 6 sixes and 3 fours, at a strike-rate of 250. Aussies hit 14 sixes compared to Pakistan's 8; being the difference between the two sides. ALSO READ | Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show 4) India beat South Africa in thrilling semi-final: In the second semi-final of the 2014 edition, Dhoni-led India faced Faf du Plessis' South Africa at Dhaka. Riding on Du Plessis' 58 and attacking knocks from JP Duminy and David Miller, Proteas posted 172-4. India started off nicely courtesy Rohit Sharma-Ajinkya Rahane, however, they still had lots to do in the last ten overs. Virat Kohli timed his innings perfectly and took on the attack with Yuvraj Singh not being at his fluent best at the other end. The then vice-captain took on the pacers and handled Imran Tahir with ease, coming to the pitch of the ball and making excellent use of his footwork, to narrow down the equation to 40 off the last 24 balls. Suresh Raina's 10-ball 21 and Kohli's majestic 44-ball 72*, at a strike-rate of 163.64, took India to the final. 5) Carlos Brathwaite's 4 sixes takes Windies to their second title: Daren Sammy-led West Indies opted to bowl first in the 2016 edition's final, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, versus Eoin Morgan-led England. Sammy & Co. restricted England to 155-9. Joe Root, Jos Buttler and David Willey's cameo took England to a healthy total whereas Windies' run-chase started off poorly; being 11-3 in no time. Marlon Samuels -- the Player-of-the-Match in the 2012 edition's final -- stood tall with his unbeaten 85 whereas Dwayne Bravo's 25-ball 27 narrowed down the equation to 19 off 6 balls. Brathwaite, who was batting on 10 off 6 balls, took Sammy & Co. home with four back-to-back sixes in the last over -- with two balls to spare -- as Windies stunned England and earned a win from the jaws of defeat. Apart from these, many other humdingers have been witnessed in the T20 WC history. For instance, the India-Pakistan bowl-out clash in 2007, India-Australia 2016 virtual quarter-final encounter, Netherlands-Ireland's epic high-scoring tie in the qualifiers in 2014, India-Bangladesh tie in the 2016 edition, Super-over fixtures in 2012, involving New Zealand-Sri Lanka and the Black Caps-Windies.

From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Below AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from a fascinating contest:

<h2>- 'Bubble cricket' can work -</h2>

Despite fears life in a bio-secure bubble, with teams holed up in onsite hotels and no spectators allowed into grounds to guard against the spread of COVID-19, might produce equally sterile cricket, both sides produced a high standard of play.

Fears a ban on shining the ball with saliva would neuter bowlers proved largely groundless, with sweat allied to seam movement off the pitch and helpful overhead conditions, allied to the skills of the attacks, ensuring batsmen had to work hard for their runs.

Meanwhile two England's 'big match' performers played key roles despite a lack of crowd support, with Ben Stokes scoring 176 and 78 not out in the second Test and paceman Stuart Broad becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets when he reached the landmark on Tuesday.

The one concerning moment came when England had to omit Jofra Archer from the second Test after it emerged the fast bowler had breached regulations by making an unauthorised trip home following the West Indies' four-wicket win in the series opener at Southampton.

England managing director Ashley Giles said Archer's error "could have cost us tens of millions of pounds" but he added the Sussex quick was a "fine young man" who would learn from his mistake.

<h2>- Holding 'bouncers' still hitting the mark -&nbsp;</h2>

This series may have been played in a bubble but it did not take place in a vacuum, with both teams -- and the match officials -- taking a knee before each Test in support of Black Lives Matter, a campaign given fresh global impetus by the death of George Floyd in police custody in the United States in May.

Former West Indies fast bowler turned television commentator Michael Holding, once the most feared of quicks, showed he could unleash a verbal, as well as physical, bouncer with an impassioned, off the cuff speech, on the first morning of the series as he called for a shake-up of the education system while criticising those who had told him to "get over" racism.

"How do you get rid of that (racism) in society? By educating both sides -- black and white," he insisted.

<h2>- Challenge Gough at your peril -</h2>

Due to travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic, this series saw the return of two home umpires standing in a Test, with teams granted an extra review per innings in recognition at the lack of neutral officials.

But when Michael Gough was in the middle for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford, his naked eye verdicts were repeatedly upheld by the Decision Review System. &nbsp;

The 40-year-old Englishman had a modest career as a Durham opening batsman, but Gough is fast becoming a top umpire.

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

International cricket's first major campaign since the coronavirus lockdown saw England triumph 2-1 in a three-Test series against the West Indies following a 269-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday. Below AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from a fascinating contest: - 'Bubble cricket' can work - Despite fears life in a bio-secure bubble, with teams holed up in onsite hotels and no spectators allowed into grounds to guard against the spread of COVID-19, might produce equally sterile cricket, both sides produced a high standard of play. Fears a ban on shining the ball with saliva would neuter bowlers proved largely groundless, with sweat allied to seam movement off the pitch and helpful overhead conditions, allied to the skills of the attacks, ensuring batsmen had to work hard for their runs. Meanwhile two England's 'big match' performers played key roles despite a lack of crowd support, with Ben Stokes scoring 176 and 78 not out in the second Test and paceman Stuart Broad becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets when he reached the landmark on Tuesday. The one concerning moment came when England had to omit Jofra Archer from the second Test after it emerged the fast bowler had breached regulations by making an unauthorised trip home following the West Indies' four-wicket win in the series opener at Southampton. England managing director Ashley Giles said Archer's error "could have cost us tens of millions of pounds" but he added the Sussex quick was a "fine young man" who would learn from his mistake. - Holding 'bouncers' still hitting the mark - This series may have been played in a bubble but it did not take place in a vacuum, with both teams -- and the match officials -- taking a knee before each Test in support of Black Lives Matter, a campaign given fresh global impetus by the death of George Floyd in police custody in the United States in May. Former West Indies fast bowler turned television commentator Michael Holding, once the most feared of quicks, showed he could unleash a verbal, as well as physical, bouncer with an impassioned, off the cuff speech, on the first morning of the series as he called for a shake-up of the education system while criticising those who had told him to "get over" racism. "How do you get rid of that (racism) in society? By educating both sides -- black and white," he insisted. - Challenge Gough at your peril - Due to travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic, this series saw the return of two home umpires standing in a Test, with teams granted an extra review per innings in recognition at the lack of neutral officials. But when Michael Gough was in the middle for the second and third Tests at Old Trafford, his naked eye verdicts were repeatedly upheld by the Decision Review System. The 40-year-old Englishman had a modest career as a Durham opening batsman, but Gough is fast becoming a top umpire.

Three things we learned from the England-West Indies series

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year.

England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen after this series with the international calendar but if there is an opportunity for England to come over to the Caribbean before the end of the year that would help significantly,” Holder said after England wrapped up the series 2-1 on Tuesday.

“It’s been a tough last few years for us financially and we’ve taken a pay cut due to the circumstances. A tour hopefully, if it is possible before the end of 2020, would help keep us afloat.”

The series, which saw the return of international cricket, was played in a bio-secure environment and Holder said smaller cricket nations might not be able to cover the costs of setting up a similar “bubble” to host visitors safely.

“We only really make money from England, and I think India. We break even with Pakistan and Australia, and all the rest of the series we play are losses,” he said.

“But in these trying times only England, Australia and India can probably host cricket. Outside of that, the smaller territories are struggling financially to get cricket on.”

Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy also wanted England to reciprocate with a tour.

“Let’s see if appreciation for our efforts will go unnoticed. They need to give us at least 20 million for all that money we saved them,” Sammy tweeted.

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year. England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

West Indies captain Jason Holder says he hopes England will reciprocate his team’s visit during the COVID-19 pandemic and tour the Caribbean later this year. England’s board had projected losses of up to $491 million if no cricket could be played this summer and the West Indies were hailed for agreeing to play the three-test series despite the UK struggling to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. “We don’t know what’s going to happen after this series with the international calendar but if there is an opportunity for England to come over to the Caribbean before the end of the year that would help significantly,” Holder said after England wrapped up the series 2-1 on Tuesday. “It’s been a tough last few years for us financially and we’ve taken a pay cut due to the circumstances. A tour hopefully, if it is possible before the end of 2020, would help keep us afloat.” The series, which saw the return of international cricket, was played in a bio-secure environment and Holder said smaller cricket nations might not be able to cover the costs of setting up a similar “bubble” to host visitors safely. “We only really make money from England, and I think India. We break even with Pakistan and Australia, and all the rest of the series we play are losses,” he said. “But in these trying times only England, Australia and India can probably host cricket. Outside of that, the smaller territories are struggling financially to get cricket on.” Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy also wanted England to reciprocate with a tour. “Let’s see if appreciation for our efforts will go unnoticed. They need to give us at least 20 million for all that money we saved them,” Sammy tweeted.

Jason Holder wants England to reciprocate with Windies tour

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat.

While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests).&nbsp;

<h2>The 500-wicket club:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz)</li>
	<li>708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne)</li>
	<li>619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison)</li>
	<li>589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
	<li>563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick)</li>
	<li>519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis)</li>
	<li>500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite)</li>
</ul>

Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then.&nbsp;

He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

England pacer Stuart Broad on Tuesday joined an elite list of fast bowlers to have scalped 500 Test wickets after the veteran trapped West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite in front of the stumps on Day 5 of the third and final Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester. Broad joined Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh and teammate James Anderson in the list of fast bowlers to have picked up 500 Test wickets and became only the seventh bowler to have achieved the elusive feat. While Broad joined an elusive list, Brathwaite completed a rare double as the Windies batsman became the 500th Test victim of Broad while also being the 500th Test wicket of James Anderson. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Broad took 140 Tests to complete join the 500-wicket club with former Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan still the quickets to complete the feat (in 87 Tests). The 500-wicket club: 800 Muttiah Muralitharan (victim: M Kasprowicz) 708 Shane Warne (victim: H Tillakaratne) 619 Anil Kumble (victim: S Harmison) 589 James Anderson (victim: K Brathwaite) 563 Glenn McGrath (victim: M Trescothick) 519 Courtney Walsh (victim: J Kallis) 500 STUART BROAD (victim: K Brathwaite) Broad has completely turned around his career in the last few years with his focus being more on making the batsmen play. The unique trait of taking the ball away from left handers while coming bowling from around the wicket. The Englishman enjoyed a phenomenal outing in the Ashes and has certainly carried his form since then. He was surprisingly dropped in the first Test against the West Indies in Southampton, which England lost but came back strong in the next two Tests to help England equalize the series and possibly get back the Wisden Trophy.

Stuart Broad joins elite list with 500 Test wickets; Brathwaite completes unique double

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Broad's haul of 6-31 in 14 overs saw the West Indies bundled out for 197 in reply to England's first-innings 369 that featured his dashing 62.

England's second-innings 226-2 declared saw opener Rory Burns make 90 as the West Indies were set a huge target of 399 for victory.

And there was still time for Broad to reduce the tourists, who had no answer to his late movement off a good length, to 10-2 at stumps on the third day.

Broad had the struggling John Campbell caught at first slip for a duck by England captain Joe Root and then moved to 499 Test wickets when nightwatchman Kemar Roach was caught behind.

Broad bowled the final over of the day's play, with his last ball just missing Shai Hope's outside edge.

The only bowlers with more than 600 Test wickets are a trio of former spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australian Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619).

The only seamers ahead of Broad are his longtime England new-ball colleague James Anderson (589) and the retired pair of Australia's Glenn McGrath (563) and the West Indies' Courtney Walsh (519).

<h2>- 'Ridiculous achievement' -</h2>

Broad took all the West Indies wickets to fall on Sunday in a combined return of 6-22 in seven overs, with his burst of 4-11 in 22 balls ending the visitors' first innings after they had avoided the follow-on.

"It's a pretty ridiculous achievement to get to 500 (wickets)," said Burns. "Hopefully we can keep grabbing them for him."

England's second innings saw Burns and Dom Sibley (56) share a stand of 114 -- England's first century opening partnership in a home Test since Alastair Cook and Alex Hales put on 126 against Pakistan at Edgbaston in 2016.

England captain Joe Root had made a brisk 68 not out when he declared, amid concerns Monday's play could be washed out.

Burns, in common with Surrey team-mate Ollie Pope in England's first innings, got into the 90s without making it to three figures.

Not that the left-hander, who holed out against off-spinner Roston Chase, was too concerned.

"It was good to set up the team in a good position though, that was the most important thing."

West Indies coach Phil Simmons once again bemoaned the failure of his team's batsmen to back up the bowlers in a gruelling schedule of three back-to-back Tests that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown.

"We haven't had any centuries in the series," he said. "There are two days left to bat and someone needs to get themselves a big hundred."

"There is plenty of time in the game so we need to be more determined to get big scores."

<h2>- Dowrich injury -</h2>

West Indies wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich was hit in the face by a 90mph Shannon Gabriel delivery that burst through his gloves and had to leave the field.

"He was lucky it came off the gloves first," said Simmons. "He has a little cut on the inside of his lip, but no damage to his teeth."

One-day international wicketkeeper Hope initially took over behind the stumps before Joshua Da Silva, the back-up gloveman in the Test squad but not in the XI for this match, was allowed on.

Da Silva nearly stumped Burns, on 12, off Chase but slipped as he tried to take off the bails.

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Stuart Broad was only one wicket away from becoming just the seventh bowler to take 500 Test wickets as England closed in on a series victory over the West Indies at Old Trafford on Sunday. Broad's haul of 6-31 in 14 overs saw the West Indies bundled out for 197 in reply to England's first-innings 369 that featured his dashing 62. England's second-innings 226-2 declared saw opener Rory Burns make 90 as the West Indies were set a huge target of 399 for victory. And there was still time for Broad to reduce the tourists, who had no answer to his late movement off a good length, to 10-2 at stumps on the third day. Broad had the struggling John Campbell caught at first slip for a duck by England captain Joe Root and then moved to 499 Test wickets when nightwatchman Kemar Roach was caught behind. Broad bowled the final over of the day's play, with his last ball just missing Shai Hope's outside edge. The only bowlers with more than 600 Test wickets are a trio of former spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australian Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619). The only seamers ahead of Broad are his longtime England new-ball colleague James Anderson (589) and the retired pair of Australia's Glenn McGrath (563) and the West Indies' Courtney Walsh (519). - 'Ridiculous achievement' - Broad took all the West Indies wickets to fall on Sunday in a combined return of 6-22 in seven overs, with his burst of 4-11 in 22 balls ending the visitors' first innings after they had avoided the follow-on. "It's a pretty ridiculous achievement to get to 500 (wickets)," said Burns. "Hopefully we can keep grabbing them for him." England's second innings saw Burns and Dom Sibley (56) share a stand of 114 -- England's first century opening partnership in a home Test since Alastair Cook and Alex Hales put on 126 against Pakistan at Edgbaston in 2016. England captain Joe Root had made a brisk 68 not out when he declared, amid concerns Monday's play could be washed out. Burns, in common with Surrey team-mate Ollie Pope in England's first innings, got into the 90s without making it to three figures. Not that the left-hander, who holed out against off-spinner Roston Chase, was too concerned. "It was good to set up the team in a good position though, that was the most important thing." West Indies coach Phil Simmons once again bemoaned the failure of his team's batsmen to back up the bowlers in a gruelling schedule of three back-to-back Tests that marks international cricket's return from the coronavirus lockdown. "We haven't had any centuries in the series," he said. "There are two days left to bat and someone needs to get themselves a big hundred." "There is plenty of time in the game so we need to be more determined to get big scores." - Dowrich injury - West Indies wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich was hit in the face by a 90mph Shannon Gabriel delivery that burst through his gloves and had to leave the field. "He was lucky it came off the gloves first," said Simmons. "He has a little cut on the inside of his lip, but no damage to his teeth." One-day international wicketkeeper Hope initially took over behind the stumps before Joshua Da Silva, the back-up gloveman in the Test squad but not in the XI for this match, was allowed on. Da Silva nearly stumped Burns, on 12, off Chase but slipped as he tried to take off the bails.

Stuart Broad on brink of 500 club as England eye West Indies series win

England will be able to recall Jofra Archer, described by skipper Joe Root as bowling "at the speed of light", for the decisive third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Friday after the pace spearhead suffered online racist abuse.

Archer was included in a 14-man squad named Thursday after missing England's series-levelling win at the same ground following a breach of coronavirus protocols caused when he made an unauthorised trip home.

In a Daily Mail column published on Wednesday, the 25-year-old Barbados-born Archer admitted to an error of judgement but said he had not "committed a crime".

He added some of the criticism he had faced on social media following the incident had been racist.

"I need to be 100 percent mentally right so that I can throw myself into my cricket this week," Archer wrote.&nbsp;

But having reassured England captain Joe Root and coach Chris Silverwood about his frame of mind, Archer could return for a match that will decide a three-Test campaign all square at 1-1.

"Jofra will be ready for it," Root told reporters on Thursday. "He's bowled the speed of light over the last couple of days in spicy nets so it wasn't much fun for our batters."

Turning to the abuse Archer had received on social media, Root said: "Obviously you can't understand all of it, some of which is really disgusting, racial abuse and other things.&nbsp;

"But he needs to know he doesn't have to deal with it on his own, he's got good people around him who want him to be happy, to enjoy his cricket and life&nbsp;away from the sport."

<h2>- Stokes concern -</h2>

Meanwhile England have a worry over the bowling fitness of Ben Stokes following his starring role during their 113-run win last time out, when he rose to the top of the Test all-rounder rankings with scores of 176 and 78 not out, as well as taking three wickets.&nbsp;

But he pulled up during his final over, with Root saying Stokes had suffered a quad injury.

England have all six of their frontline pacemen available.&nbsp;

They could play four of them and pair veteran new-ball duo James Anderson and Stuart Broad for the first time this series if Stokes, now also the world's number three ranked Test batsman, cannot bowl.

It would be tough on the consistent Chris Woakes were he to be dropped and spinner Dom Bess could make way as well if England decide Root's occasional off-breaks offer sufficient variety.

West Indies, who hold the Wisden Trophy, could select off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall for his first match this series.

So far they've relied on the same pace quartet, backed up by batting all-rounder Roston Chase's off-breaks.

But the 6ft 6in Cornwall, who weighs around 22 stone, may get his chance after taking 10 wickets in just his second Test against Afghanistan in November.

"If he does come in he is a wicket-taker and he has proven himself to be a match-winner," said West Indies captain Jason Holder.

While concerns have been raised about how the West Indies fast bowlers will pull up, batting appears to be the biggest issue as they go in search of their first Test series victory in England for 32 years.

Shai Hope has long struggled to recapture the form that saw him score his only two hundreds when the West Indies defeated England at Headingley three years ago.

But Holder said: "I'm 100 percent behind Shai, we all know what he can produce."&nbsp;

Whatever the outcome, there is no denying the debt of both gratitude and finance the England and Wales Cricket Board owes the West Indies in helping them reduce a potential loss of hundreds of millions of pounds by going ahead with the first major international cricket series since lockdown.

Holder's focus, however, remained on the task at hand.

"We still have a really good opportunity to win this series and everybody's upbeat for the occasion because we know what's at stake."

England will be able to recall Jofra Archer, described by skipper Joe Root as bowling "at the speed of light", for the decisive third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Friday after the pace spearhead suffered online racist abuse.

England will be able to recall Jofra Archer, described by skipper Joe Root as bowling "at the speed of light", for the decisive third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford on Friday after the pace spearhead suffered online racist abuse. Archer was included in a 14-man squad named Thursday after missing England's series-levelling win at the same ground following a breach of coronavirus protocols caused when he made an unauthorised trip home. In a Daily Mail column published on Wednesday, the 25-year-old Barbados-born Archer admitted to an error of judgement but said he had not "committed a crime". He added some of the criticism he had faced on social media following the incident had been racist. "I need to be 100 percent mentally right so that I can throw myself into my cricket this week," Archer wrote. But having reassured England captain Joe Root and coach Chris Silverwood about his frame of mind, Archer could return for a match that will decide a three-Test campaign all square at 1-1. "Jofra will be ready for it," Root told reporters on Thursday. "He's bowled the speed of light over the last couple of days in spicy nets so it wasn't much fun for our batters." Turning to the abuse Archer had received on social media, Root said: "Obviously you can't understand all of it, some of which is really disgusting, racial abuse and other things. "But he needs to know he doesn't have to deal with it on his own, he's got good people around him who want him to be happy, to enjoy his cricket and life away from the sport." - Stokes concern - Meanwhile England have a worry over the bowling fitness of Ben Stokes following his starring role during their 113-run win last time out, when he rose to the top of the Test all-rounder rankings with scores of 176 and 78 not out, as well as taking three wickets. But he pulled up during his final over, with Root saying Stokes had suffered a quad injury. England have all six of their frontline pacemen available. They could play four of them and pair veteran new-ball duo James Anderson and Stuart Broad for the first time this series if Stokes, now also the world's number three ranked Test batsman, cannot bowl. It would be tough on the consistent Chris Woakes were he to be dropped and spinner Dom Bess could make way as well if England decide Root's occasional off-breaks offer sufficient variety. West Indies, who hold the Wisden Trophy, could select off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall for his first match this series. So far they've relied on the same pace quartet, backed up by batting all-rounder Roston Chase's off-breaks. But the 6ft 6in Cornwall, who weighs around 22 stone, may get his chance after taking 10 wickets in just his second Test against Afghanistan in November. "If he does come in he is a wicket-taker and he has proven himself to be a match-winner," said West Indies captain Jason Holder. While concerns have been raised about how the West Indies fast bowlers will pull up, batting appears to be the biggest issue as they go in search of their first Test series victory in England for 32 years. Shai Hope has long struggled to recapture the form that saw him score his only two hundreds when the West Indies defeated England at Headingley three years ago. But Holder said: "I'm 100 percent behind Shai, we all know what he can produce." Whatever the outcome, there is no denying the debt of both gratitude and finance the England and Wales Cricket Board owes the West Indies in helping them reduce a potential loss of hundreds of millions of pounds by going ahead with the first major international cricket series since lockdown. Holder's focus, however, remained on the task at hand. "We still have a really good opportunity to win this series and everybody's upbeat for the occasion because we know what's at stake."

'Speed of light' Archer returns for England as West Indies eye history

England and West Indies are set to go into the third and final match of the Test series at the Old Trafford in Manchester. The three-match series has so far been an enthralling encounter between the two sides with both winning one game each. With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the finale promises to be an edge-of-the-set contest.

West Indies started the series with a four-wicket win against England in Southampton with the visitors standing out with both ball and the willow. However, England fought back strong in the second Test and equalized the series with a thumping 113-run win.&nbsp;

The third match of the series comes with plenty of headaches for both England and Windies camp. While team selection is a major issue going into the series decider, weather forecast is something which won’t make the English team happy. Notably, a draw is enough for the Windies to take the Wisden Trophy back to the Caribbean.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-enough-is-enough-jofra-archer-reveals-racist-abuse-after-getting-axed-from-manchester-test-315147" hreflang="en">Enough is enough: Jofra Archer reveals racist abuse after getting axed from Manchester Test</a>

<h2>A debut for Chemar Holder on cards? Will Rahkeem Cornwall get a game?</h2>

West Indies bowlers looked tired and sluggish in the second Test after a phenomenal outing in the opener. While Shannon Gabriel struggled throughout the course of the match, Kemar Roach and Jason Holder looked out of their usual rhythm. That brings the likes of Chemar Holder, Rahkeem Cornwall into the scene but will Jason pick inexperienced guns in such a high-profile decider? That remains to be seen.

<h2>Selection headache in England camp as well</h2>

For England, the selection headache is immense. The entire pace bowling department consisting the likes of James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran and Mark Wood are available. While Wood, Archer and Anderson played the Southampton Test which England lost, Broad, Woakes and Curran helped England fight back in the series. Dropping Anderson at his home ground, in the final Test, would be a massive call by Joe Root. And for Woakes or Curran, missing out after solid performance in the second Test would be a heartbreak.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-anderson-hoping-to-partner-stuart-broad-as-england-go-for-series-win-315213" hreflang="en">James Anderson hoping to partner Stuart Broad as England go for series win</a>

<h2>Rain gods to play spoilsport?</h2>

Weather forecast, too, isn’t great for cricket. With Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday expected to be hit by persistent showers which makes the likelihood of a draw a major possibility.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the three-match Test series between England and West Indies have been a gripping watch for cricket lovers and everyone would be hoping to have a good game minus the presence of rain gods. 
&nbsp;

England and West Indies are set to go into the third and final match of the Test series at the Old Trafford in Manchester. The three-match series has so far been an enthralling encounter between the two sides with both winning one game each.

England and West Indies are set to go into the third and final match of the Test series at the Old Trafford in Manchester. The three-match series has so far been an enthralling encounter between the two sides with both winning one game each. With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the finale promises to be an edge-of-the-set contest. West Indies started the series with a four-wicket win against England in Southampton with the visitors standing out with both ball and the willow. However, England fought back strong in the second Test and equalized the series with a thumping 113-run win. The third match of the series comes with plenty of headaches for both England and Windies camp. While team selection is a major issue going into the series decider, weather forecast is something which won’t make the English team happy. Notably, a draw is enough for the Windies to take the Wisden Trophy back to the Caribbean. ALSO READ: Enough is enough: Jofra Archer reveals racist abuse after getting axed from Manchester Test A debut for Chemar Holder on cards? Will Rahkeem Cornwall get a game? West Indies bowlers looked tired and sluggish in the second Test after a phenomenal outing in the opener. While Shannon Gabriel struggled throughout the course of the match, Kemar Roach and Jason Holder looked out of their usual rhythm. That brings the likes of Chemar Holder, Rahkeem Cornwall into the scene but will Jason pick inexperienced guns in such a high-profile decider? That remains to be seen. Selection headache in England camp as well For England, the selection headache is immense. The entire pace bowling department consisting the likes of James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran and Mark Wood are available. While Wood, Archer and Anderson played the Southampton Test which England lost, Broad, Woakes and Curran helped England fight back in the series. Dropping Anderson at his home ground, in the final Test, would be a massive call by Joe Root. And for Woakes or Curran, missing out after solid performance in the second Test would be a heartbreak. ALSO READ: James Anderson hoping to partner Stuart Broad as England go for series win Rain gods to play spoilsport? Weather forecast, too, isn’t great for cricket. With Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday expected to be hit by persistent showers which makes the likelihood of a draw a major possibility. Nonetheless, the three-match Test series between England and West Indies have been a gripping watch for cricket lovers and everyone would be hoping to have a good game minus the presence of rain gods.

England vs West Indies 3rd Test, Preview: Manchester gears up for series decider

England will be heading into the third Test against West Indies at the Old Trafford in Manchester in what promises to be a nail-biting series finale. However, skipper Joe Root will have some headaches regarding team selection with each and every pacer in the squad fit and raring to find a place in the XI.&nbsp;

The troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran was included in the playing XI in the second Test with James Anderson and Mark Wood rested, whereas Jofra Archer missed the match due to breach of bio-secure protocols. Woakes and Curran played a huge role in helping equalize the series but with Anderson looking for a place in the XI, someone might miss the bus.&nbsp;

A schedule of six matches in seven weeks against the West Indies and then Pakistan means England have had to rotate their bowlers and Anderson does not underestimate the difficult choices facing coach Chris Silverwood and captain Joe Root.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-enough-is-enough-jofra-archer-reveals-racist-abuse-after-getting-axed-from-manchester-test-315147" hreflang="en">Enough is enough: Jofra Archer reveals racist abuse after getting axed from Manchester Test</a>

“I presume the best three players will play but it’s going to be a difficult decision for Joe and Chris and there will be some disappointed guys,” Anderson told a news conference on Wednesday.

There have been suggestions that Anderson, who turns 38 next week, and Broad will not bowl again but the veteran seamer is of the view that they should play together if fit.

“Our record together speaks for itself and I’d really like to think that if we are both fit and England are picking their best bowling attack then we’d both be in that,” he said.

“It’s a good position to be in because it shows we have strength in depth,” Anderson added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-was-in-line-to-play-t20-world-cup-reveals-south-africas-quinton-de-kock-315125" hreflang="en">‘AB de Villiers was in line to play T20 World Cup,’ reveals South Africa's Quinton de Kock</a>

Anderson further revealed that bowlers are suffering with a bit of stiffness but added that it was inevitable after such a long gap due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

“There is a bit of stiffness with the bowlers but that’s inevitable,” Anderson said. 
&nbsp;

England will be heading into the third Test against West Indies at the Old Trafford in Manchester in what promises to be a nail-biting series finale. However, skipper Joe Root will have some headaches regarding team selection with each and every pacer in the squad fit and raring to find a place in the XI.

England will be heading into the third Test against West Indies at the Old Trafford in Manchester in what promises to be a nail-biting series finale. However, skipper Joe Root will have some headaches regarding team selection with each and every pacer in the squad fit and raring to find a place in the XI. The troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran was included in the playing XI in the second Test with James Anderson and Mark Wood rested, whereas Jofra Archer missed the match due to breach of bio-secure protocols. Woakes and Curran played a huge role in helping equalize the series but with Anderson looking for a place in the XI, someone might miss the bus. A schedule of six matches in seven weeks against the West Indies and then Pakistan means England have had to rotate their bowlers and Anderson does not underestimate the difficult choices facing coach Chris Silverwood and captain Joe Root. ALSO READ: Enough is enough: Jofra Archer reveals racist abuse after getting axed from Manchester Test “I presume the best three players will play but it’s going to be a difficult decision for Joe and Chris and there will be some disappointed guys,” Anderson told a news conference on Wednesday. There have been suggestions that Anderson, who turns 38 next week, and Broad will not bowl again but the veteran seamer is of the view that they should play together if fit. “Our record together speaks for itself and I’d really like to think that if we are both fit and England are picking their best bowling attack then we’d both be in that,” he said. “It’s a good position to be in because it shows we have strength in depth,” Anderson added. ALSO READ: ‘AB de Villiers was in line to play T20 World Cup,’ reveals South Africa's Quinton de Kock Anderson further revealed that bowlers are suffering with a bit of stiffness but added that it was inevitable after such a long gap due to COVID-19 pandemic. “There is a bit of stiffness with the bowlers but that’s inevitable,” Anderson said.

James Anderson hoping to partner Stuart Broad as England go for series win

Jofra Archer has revealed that he was subjected to racist abuse on social media after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">breaching bio-security protocols and being dropped by England for the second Test</a> against the West Indies. The English speedster further said that he was struggling for motivation ahead of third Test against Jason Holder and Co.&nbsp;

Archer has since passed the details of the racist abuse to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and is seeking to have action taken.

“Some of the abuse I have taken over the past few days on Instagram has been racist and I have decided that enough is enough,” he wrote in his column in the Daily Mail on Wednesday.

“Since Wilfried Zaha, the Crystal Palace footballer, was abused by a 12-year-old online I drew a line and I will not allow anything to pass, so I have forwarded on my complaints to the ECB and that will go through the correct process.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-available-for-3rd-test-vs-wi-fined-and-warned-for-breaching-bio-secure-protocols-314294">Archer was fined and officially warned by the ECB while being forced to self-isolate</a>. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-archer-rejoins-england-for-3rd-test-after-2nd-negative-check-314922">However, his both the COVID-19 tests have come negative and the Barbadian-born pacer is eligible to play in the third Test</a>.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-archer-rejoins-england-for-3rd-test-after-2nd-negative-check-314922" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI: Archer rejoins England for 3rd Test after 2nd negative check</a>

The 25-year-old went home last week instead of heading to Manchester from Southampton under the strict health guidelines laid for the series. Archer received a lot of flak for the breach with some of the big names slamming the youngster. However, racist abuse is something which is unacceptable with the entire world fighting against racial discrimination.

“I found I was struggling for motivation in the circumstances when it came to returning to bowling in the nets. When I walked outside of my room for the first time since being placed into self-isolation for breaking the COVID-19 protocols, I heard the cameras clicking with every single step I took,” he wrote.

“The whole spectacle made me feel uneasy. I know what I did was an error of judgement and I have suffered the consequences of that. I haven’t committed a crime and I want to start feeling myself again.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-was-in-line-to-play-t20-world-cup-reveals-south-africas-quinton-de-kock-315125" hreflang="en">‘AB de Villiers was in line to play T20 World Cup,’ reveals South Africa's Quinton de Kock</a>

“I spoke briefly to the doctor about how I’m feeling and also to Ben Stokes on Monday night. Ben tried to advise me on how to deal with being in the spotlight of international sport. He vowed to back me and support me. Now, I need to be 100 percent mentally right so that I can throw myself into my cricket this week,” Archer added.

The three-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 with both England and West Indies looking to win the summit clash in Manchester. Notably, a draw is enough for the West Indies to take back the Wisden Trophy to the Caribbean. 
&nbsp;

Jofra Archer has revealed that he was subjected to racist abuse on social media after breaching bio-security protocols and being dropped by England for the second Test against the West Indies.

Jofra Archer has revealed that he was subjected to racist abuse on social media after breaching bio-security protocols and being dropped by England for the second Test against the West Indies. The English speedster further said that he was struggling for motivation ahead of third Test against Jason Holder and Co. Archer has since passed the details of the racist abuse to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and is seeking to have action taken. “Some of the abuse I have taken over the past few days on Instagram has been racist and I have decided that enough is enough,” he wrote in his column in the Daily Mail on Wednesday. “Since Wilfried Zaha, the Crystal Palace footballer, was abused by a 12-year-old online I drew a line and I will not allow anything to pass, so I have forwarded on my complaints to the ECB and that will go through the correct process.” Archer was fined and officially warned by the ECB while being forced to self-isolate. However, his both the COVID-19 tests have come negative and the Barbadian-born pacer is eligible to play in the third Test. ALSO READ: ENG vs WI: Archer rejoins England for 3rd Test after 2nd negative check The 25-year-old went home last week instead of heading to Manchester from Southampton under the strict health guidelines laid for the series. Archer received a lot of flak for the breach with some of the big names slamming the youngster. However, racist abuse is something which is unacceptable with the entire world fighting against racial discrimination. “I found I was struggling for motivation in the circumstances when it came to returning to bowling in the nets. When I walked outside of my room for the first time since being placed into self-isolation for breaking the COVID-19 protocols, I heard the cameras clicking with every single step I took,” he wrote. “The whole spectacle made me feel uneasy. I know what I did was an error of judgement and I have suffered the consequences of that. I haven’t committed a crime and I want to start feeling myself again. ALSO READ: ‘AB de Villiers was in line to play T20 World Cup,’ reveals South Africa's Quinton de Kock “I spoke briefly to the doctor about how I’m feeling and also to Ben Stokes on Monday night. Ben tried to advise me on how to deal with being in the spotlight of international sport. He vowed to back me and support me. Now, I need to be 100 percent mentally right so that I can throw myself into my cricket this week,” Archer added. The three-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 with both England and West Indies looking to win the summit clash in Manchester. Notably, a draw is enough for the West Indies to take back the Wisden Trophy to the Caribbean.

Enough is enough: Jofra Archer reveals racist abuse after getting axed from Manchester Test

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test.&nbsp;

The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts. Stokes scored 78 runs in just 57 balls and his innings included four fours and three sixes taking the total score to 129/3 declared in their second innings.&nbsp;

Ben Stokes has played a major role in both innings, he scored 176 runs in the first innings helping England declare at 469-9.&nbsp;

England will plan to scalp all wickets before the day ends, however, if the West Indies, who won the first Test at Southampton by four wickets, avoid defeat they will retain the Wisden Trophy following a 2-1 series victory over England in the Caribbean last year.

Netizens lauded Stokes' impressive knock.&nbsp;

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Ben Stokes being a ridiculously good cricketer. 
 
A thread — <a href="https://t.co/sWbmykbb7b">pic.twitter.com/sWbmykbb7b</a>
— Cricket District 🏏 (@cricketdistrict) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketdistrict/status/1285163820273598464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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For All Those Saying Ben Stokes Needs To Perform Outside Home &amp; In Asia... 
 
Stokes Has Test Centuries In: 
 
🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳 &amp; SA 🇿🇦. 
 
Stokes Has A 4 or 5 Wicket Haul In: 
 
🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳, (5 WKT Haul) 
 
🔹 Ban 🇧🇩, SA 🇿🇦, UAE 🇦🇪, WI 🌴 (4 WKT Haul) 
 
Superb. <a href="https://t.co/Jn11KWh3MF">pic.twitter.com/Jn11KWh3MF</a>
— Varun Desai (@LWOSVarun) <a href="https://twitter.com/LWOSVarun/status/1285175824770113537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In this game, Ben Stokes has scored 254 of the 443 runs while he has been at the crease (and been dismissed once). He scored his slowest Test century, then the fastest Test fifty by an England opener. What a player.
— Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_topspin/status/1285166979926630400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Are we at the point now where we can safely call Sir Ben Stokes the best player in the world? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/QueaEQw0pe">pic.twitter.com/QueaEQw0pe</a>
— K H A Y A M (@KhayamSays) <a href="https://twitter.com/KhayamSays/status/1285164472575942656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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English batsmen who average 45+ opening the batting since 1980 (min. 78 runs): 
 
Michael Vaughan 
Jack Leach 
Ben Stokes
— Will 🚾 (@ohlookitswill_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ohlookitswill_/status/1285167622821224448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test. The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts.

Ben Stokes' power-hitting helped England set a target of 312 for the West Indies at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the second test. The star all-rounder promoted himself to open the innings for the hosts. Stokes scored 78 runs in just 57 balls and his innings included four fours and three sixes taking the total score to 129/3 declared in their second innings. Ben Stokes has played a major role in both innings, he scored 176 runs in the first innings helping England declare at 469-9. England will plan to scalp all wickets before the day ends, however, if the West Indies, who won the first Test at Southampton by four wickets, avoid defeat they will retain the Wisden Trophy following a 2-1 series victory over England in the Caribbean last year. Netizens lauded Stokes' impressive knock. Ben Stokes being a ridiculously good cricketer. A thread — pic.twitter.com/sWbmykbb7b — Cricket District 🏏 (@cricketdistrict) July 20, 2020 × For All Those Saying Ben Stokes Needs To Perform Outside Home & In Asia... Stokes Has Test Centuries In: 🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳 & SA 🇿🇦. Stokes Has A 4 or 5 Wicket Haul In: 🔹 Aus 🇦🇺, Eng 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, Ind 🇮🇳, (5 WKT Haul) 🔹 Ban 🇧🇩, SA 🇿🇦, UAE 🇦🇪, WI 🌴 (4 WKT Haul) Superb. pic.twitter.com/Jn11KWh3MF — Varun Desai (@LWOSVarun) July 20, 2020 × In this game, Ben Stokes has scored 254 of the 443 runs while he has been at the crease (and been dismissed once). He scored his slowest Test century, then the fastest Test fifty by an England opener. What a player. — Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) July 20, 2020 × Are we at the point now where we can safely call Sir Ben Stokes the best player in the world? #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/QueaEQw0pe — K H A Y A M (@KhayamSays) July 20, 2020 × English batsmen who average 45+ opening the batting since 1980 (min. 78 runs): Michael Vaughan Jack Leach Ben Stokes — Will 🚾 (@ohlookitswill_) July 20, 2020 ×

Netizens laud Ben Stokes' power-hitting as England set West Indies 312 to win second Test

Ben Stokes said he was now more than just a purely instinctive cricketer after the all-rounder's latest superb century left England strongly-placed in the second Test against the West Indies.

Stokes top-scored with 176 in England's first innings 469-9 declared, before the West Indies reached 32-1 at the close of Friday's second day at Old Trafford.

This was the second-highest of Stokes's 10 Test hundreds, behind his blistering 258 against South Africa at Cape Town in 2016.

But, more significantly, it was also his fourth Test century since the start of 2019, during which time the left-hander has averaged over 52 -- the sign of a world-class batsman.

As was the case with his stunning 135 not out during a remarkable one-wicket win in the third Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley last year, Stokes had the discipline to play himself in against accurate bowling before picking the right moment to up the tempo.

He found a fine ally on Friday in Dom Sibley, the opener's 120 his first Test century in England.

But with Sibley batting sedately -- his hundred took the best part of eight hours -- there was a danger of England getting bogged down in a match they need to win to level the three-Test series at 1-1.

Stokes, however, ensured that did not happen.

Having gone to a hundred in, by his standards, a restrained 255 balls, Stokes needed a mere 46 more for the third fifty of his innings as he punished a new ball being deployed by a tiring West Indies pace attack.

It was a sublime mixture of both skill and match awareness, the latest Stokes has displayed since being acquitted of an affray charge in 2018 after an incident outside a nightclub that saw him miss an Ashes tour and threatened to end his England career completely.

Stokes, who last week deputised as captain for Joe Root after England's regular skipper missed a four-wicket loss to the West Indies following the birth of his second child, was once more proving himself to be a leader even if he was now back among the ranks.

<h2>- 'Understand my game' -</h2>

"Numbers, figures...I don't really care," said Stokes, who shared a fourth-wicket stand of 260 with Sibley that rescued England from a top-order collapse.

"The main number for me is how many wins," he said.&nbsp;

"I was more buzzing that I faced 300 balls than I was when I got to my hundred, that's something I never thought I'd be capable of doing."

The 29-year-old Stokes, now in his 65th Test, added: "Being an instinctive player is great but there's time in the past where I've let how I'm playing at the time affect me, thinking I can play some big shots and I'd be alright.

"I feel at an age and an experience level where I really understand my game pretty much all the time and I try not to get carried away."

Meanwhile Stokes also demonstrated a degree of empathy for the plight of Jofra Archer.

The England fast bowler was dramatically ruled out of this match after it emerged he had broken the bio-secure regulations governing this behind closed doors series by making an unauthorised trip home to Brighton following the end of the first Test.

England had wanted to play the express quick in Manchester and his lapse left many within the hosts' camp feeling frustrated.

Archer is currently self-isolating in his hotel room at Old Trafford but Stokes said: "We really need to be there to support Jofra right now.

"The worst thing we could do right now as a team is just leave him and see him in five or six days time."

He added: "It's all good being there for people when things are going well and smoothly but what really comes through is how you operate with someone when they need you the most."

Ben Stokes said he was now more than just a purely instinctive cricketer after the all-rounder's latest superb century left England strongly-placed in the second Test against the West Indies.

Ben Stokes said he was now more than just a purely instinctive cricketer after the all-rounder's latest superb century left England strongly-placed in the second Test against the West Indies. Stokes top-scored with 176 in England's first innings 469-9 declared, before the West Indies reached 32-1 at the close of Friday's second day at Old Trafford. This was the second-highest of Stokes's 10 Test hundreds, behind his blistering 258 against South Africa at Cape Town in 2016. But, more significantly, it was also his fourth Test century since the start of 2019, during which time the left-hander has averaged over 52 -- the sign of a world-class batsman. As was the case with his stunning 135 not out during a remarkable one-wicket win in the third Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley last year, Stokes had the discipline to play himself in against accurate bowling before picking the right moment to up the tempo. He found a fine ally on Friday in Dom Sibley, the opener's 120 his first Test century in England. But with Sibley batting sedately -- his hundred took the best part of eight hours -- there was a danger of England getting bogged down in a match they need to win to level the three-Test series at 1-1. Stokes, however, ensured that did not happen. Having gone to a hundred in, by his standards, a restrained 255 balls, Stokes needed a mere 46 more for the third fifty of his innings as he punished a new ball being deployed by a tiring West Indies pace attack. It was a sublime mixture of both skill and match awareness, the latest Stokes has displayed since being acquitted of an affray charge in 2018 after an incident outside a nightclub that saw him miss an Ashes tour and threatened to end his England career completely. Stokes, who last week deputised as captain for Joe Root after England's regular skipper missed a four-wicket loss to the West Indies following the birth of his second child, was once more proving himself to be a leader even if he was now back among the ranks. - 'Understand my game' - "Numbers, figures...I don't really care," said Stokes, who shared a fourth-wicket stand of 260 with Sibley that rescued England from a top-order collapse. "The main number for me is how many wins," he said. "I was more buzzing that I faced 300 balls than I was when I got to my hundred, that's something I never thought I'd be capable of doing." The 29-year-old Stokes, now in his 65th Test, added: "Being an instinctive player is great but there's time in the past where I've let how I'm playing at the time affect me, thinking I can play some big shots and I'd be alright. "I feel at an age and an experience level where I really understand my game pretty much all the time and I try not to get carried away." Meanwhile Stokes also demonstrated a degree of empathy for the plight of Jofra Archer. The England fast bowler was dramatically ruled out of this match after it emerged he had broken the bio-secure regulations governing this behind closed doors series by making an unauthorised trip home to Brighton following the end of the first Test. England had wanted to play the express quick in Manchester and his lapse left many within the hosts' camp feeling frustrated. Archer is currently self-isolating in his hotel room at Old Trafford but Stokes said: "We really need to be there to support Jofra right now. "The worst thing we could do right now as a team is just leave him and see him in five or six days time." He added: "It's all good being there for people when things are going well and smoothly but what really comes through is how you operate with someone when they need you the most."

Stokes says his success more than just 'instinct'

In an exclusive interview with WION, West Indies pacer Chemar Holder spoke talked about his splendid rise, Jason Holder's captaincy, training with experienced players such as Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach, England vs West Indies (#ENGvWI) series, his idol Sir Curtly Ambrose and much more.

WION Exclusive: West Indies pacer Chemar Holder opens up about ENG vs WI series and more

English speedster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols </a>could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies</a> after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday.&nbsp;

While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton.&nbsp;

<h2>This could have been a disaster: Giles</h2>

“This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-no-sympathy-at-all-michael-holding-lashes-out-at-jofra-archer-questions-ecbs-bio-secure-protocols-313783" hreflang="en">'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols</a>

“The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.”

Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. &nbsp;

“He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said.

“He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-uae-keeping-itself-ready-in-case-the-call-comes-from-bcci-313951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI</a>

In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team.&nbsp;

England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease. 
&nbsp;

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said. Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday. While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton. This could have been a disaster: Giles “This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said. ALSO READ: 'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols “The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.” Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. “He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said. “He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.” ALSO READ: IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team. England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease.

Jofra Archer's breach could have cost ECB millions, says Ashley Giles

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was f<a href="ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols">ound guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB)</a>. Archer reportedly visited his home on his way from Southampton to Manchester before the second Test, which commenced on Thursday at the Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Former West Indies pacer Michael Holding has now slammed Archer for breaking the protocols while questioning ECB’s stance of allowing the players to travel to stadiums by their own cars rather than a team coach/bus.&nbsp;

Archer has now been asked to self-isolate and the English speedster will undergo two COVID-19 tests and if the reports come out negative then only he will be allowed to join the squad and be available for selection for the third Test.&nbsp;

Holding lambasted Archer for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols while adding he has no sympathy with Archer for his actions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-a-covid-twist-pak-spinner-kashif-bhatti-rejoins-squad-after-testing-negative-313753" hreflang="en">In a COVID twist, Pak spinner Kashif Bhatti rejoins squad after testing negative</a>

"I have no sympathy at all. I don't understand why people can't just do what is required," Holding said on Sky Sports.

"Talking about sacrifices - Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in a little cell and he did nothing wrong - that is a sacrifice," he added.

Holding also questioned the England Cricket Board for their 'illogical' bio-secure protocols.&nbsp;

"I just want to ask a few questions of the ECB and these protocols, though. I understand that protocols should be put in place but they should be a little bit more logical," Holding said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-pak-can-pakistan-defeat-england-in-the-test-series-ramiz-raja-gives-his-take-313738" hreflang="en">Can Pakistan defeat England in the Test series? Ramiz Raja gives his take</a>

"Why aren't the England team travelling on a bus? If they have already passed the Covid test and everyone is together, they have six matches and are moving from one venue to another, why aren't they just all on a bus? Why are they allowed to travel by car? People need to just think a bit," he added.

England headed into the second Test trailing by 1-0 and the Joe Root-led side would be looking to get back to winning ways and equalize the series. 
&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was found guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB).

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was found guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB). Archer reportedly visited his home on his way from Southampton to Manchester before the second Test, which commenced on Thursday at the Old Trafford. Former West Indies pacer Michael Holding has now slammed Archer for breaking the protocols while questioning ECB’s stance of allowing the players to travel to stadiums by their own cars rather than a team coach/bus. Archer has now been asked to self-isolate and the English speedster will undergo two COVID-19 tests and if the reports come out negative then only he will be allowed to join the squad and be available for selection for the third Test. Holding lambasted Archer for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols while adding he has no sympathy with Archer for his actions. ALSO READ: In a COVID twist, Pak spinner Kashif Bhatti rejoins squad after testing negative "I have no sympathy at all. I don't understand why people can't just do what is required," Holding said on Sky Sports. "Talking about sacrifices - Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in a little cell and he did nothing wrong - that is a sacrifice," he added. Holding also questioned the England Cricket Board for their 'illogical' bio-secure protocols. "I just want to ask a few questions of the ECB and these protocols, though. I understand that protocols should be put in place but they should be a little bit more logical," Holding said. ALSO READ: Can Pakistan defeat England in the Test series? Ramiz Raja gives his take "Why aren't the England team travelling on a bus? If they have already passed the Covid test and everyone is together, they have six matches and are moving from one venue to another, why aren't they just all on a bus? Why are they allowed to travel by car? People need to just think a bit," he added. England headed into the second Test trailing by 1-0 and the Joe Root-led side would be looking to get back to winning ways and equalize the series.

'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday.

Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child.

He has now rejoined the squad, with the West Indies needing just one win from the two remaining Tests at Old Trafford to clinch a first series win in England for 32 years.

Although all three fixtures are being played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak, Root, returning to lead England after all-rounder Ben Stokes took temporary charge, will be in a familiar position.

England have now lost the opening match of a series for the eighth time in 10 campaigns.

Most recently in South Africa they recovered from a heavy defeat in the first Test to win that series 3-1.

"It's quite frustrating," said Root of England's slow starts on Wednesday.

"The pleasing thing is there's been times when that's been the case and we've still come out and won the series. That's the challenge now."

Joe Denly has made way for Root after he was twice out cheaply at Southampton to leave him with a modest average of 29.53 from 15 Tests.

"Joe is someone who has done a fantastic job for us over a period of time and he'll be as frustrated as anyone that he's not been able to covert those opportunities," added Root.

Meanwhile, England are set to recall Stuart Broad after he missed a first home Test in eight years when left out at Southampton -- a move that prompted the veteran seamer to describe himself as "gutted and angry".

Broad is second only to James Anderson in England's all-time list of Test wicket-takers.

But he won't be alongside his longtime new-ball colleague, with Anderson rested along with Durham fast bowler Mark Wood, who also played the opening Test.

Chris Woakes could come into the side in Wood's absence.

England have added left-armer Sam Curran and the uncapped Ollie Robinson to a pace attack still featuring Jofra Archer as they make good on a promise to rotate their quicks amid a gruelling schedule of six Tests in seven weeks, including three against Pakistan.

<h2>- 'Think outside the box' -</h2>

"With Stuart and Jimmy, trying to maximise their careers is really important to make sure they are playing for as long as possible," said Root.

"If that has to be slightly different to how it has been over the last few years then we might have to think outside the box and not play them in every game or not play them together all the time."

Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has been retained despite dropping Jermaine Blackwood early in the West Indies batsman's match-clinching innings of 95 at Southampton and averaging just 23.22 in Tests since the start of 2019.

But Root, encouraged by Buttler's first-innings 35, said his fellow World Cup-winner was close to cracking Test cricket.

"It's just a matter of time before we see some of those special innings we've seen in white-ball cricket," he insisted.

West Indies are now on the brink of their first away Test series win against major opposition since 1994/95.

But captain Jason Holder, the world's top-ranked Test all-rounder, said there was no danger of his side getting carried away.

"Winning the first Test match is just one piece of the puzzle," explained Holder, who took a Test-best 6-42 last week.&nbsp;

"We've got two other games to play and we don't get ahead of ourselves."

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday. Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child.

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday. Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child. He has now rejoined the squad, with the West Indies needing just one win from the two remaining Tests at Old Trafford to clinch a first series win in England for 32 years. Although all three fixtures are being played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak, Root, returning to lead England after all-rounder Ben Stokes took temporary charge, will be in a familiar position. England have now lost the opening match of a series for the eighth time in 10 campaigns. Most recently in South Africa they recovered from a heavy defeat in the first Test to win that series 3-1. "It's quite frustrating," said Root of England's slow starts on Wednesday. "The pleasing thing is there's been times when that's been the case and we've still come out and won the series. That's the challenge now." Joe Denly has made way for Root after he was twice out cheaply at Southampton to leave him with a modest average of 29.53 from 15 Tests. "Joe is someone who has done a fantastic job for us over a period of time and he'll be as frustrated as anyone that he's not been able to covert those opportunities," added Root. Meanwhile, England are set to recall Stuart Broad after he missed a first home Test in eight years when left out at Southampton -- a move that prompted the veteran seamer to describe himself as "gutted and angry". Broad is second only to James Anderson in England's all-time list of Test wicket-takers. But he won't be alongside his longtime new-ball colleague, with Anderson rested along with Durham fast bowler Mark Wood, who also played the opening Test. Chris Woakes could come into the side in Wood's absence. England have added left-armer Sam Curran and the uncapped Ollie Robinson to a pace attack still featuring Jofra Archer as they make good on a promise to rotate their quicks amid a gruelling schedule of six Tests in seven weeks, including three against Pakistan. - 'Think outside the box' - "With Stuart and Jimmy, trying to maximise their careers is really important to make sure they are playing for as long as possible," said Root. "If that has to be slightly different to how it has been over the last few years then we might have to think outside the box and not play them in every game or not play them together all the time." Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has been retained despite dropping Jermaine Blackwood early in the West Indies batsman's match-clinching innings of 95 at Southampton and averaging just 23.22 in Tests since the start of 2019. But Root, encouraged by Buttler's first-innings 35, said his fellow World Cup-winner was close to cracking Test cricket. "It's just a matter of time before we see some of those special innings we've seen in white-ball cricket," he insisted. West Indies are now on the brink of their first away Test series win against major opposition since 1994/95. But captain Jason Holder, the world's top-ranked Test all-rounder, said there was no danger of his side getting carried away. "Winning the first Test match is just one piece of the puzzle," explained Holder, who took a Test-best 6-42 last week. "We've got two other games to play and we don't get ahead of ourselves."

ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the <a href="England vs West Indies 1st Test: Blackwood, Gabriel steal show as visitors take 1-0 lead in series">West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England</a> as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line.&nbsp;

Blackwood said that he wasn’t thinking about the century but was more determined to take his team over the winning line. But an ill-timed lofted stroke, when he was at 95, allowed the ball to travel straight to the hands of James Anderson at mid-off. However, the Windies were still able to secure the historic win as they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series.

The 28-year-old has always been successful against England, averaging over 50 with his only Test century also registered against England in Antigua in 2015.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-five-things-we-learned-from-the-first-test-312971" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test</a>

"I was very disappointed in myself when I got out at that stage of the game," Blackwood, who had scored 187 runs with a top score of 79 not out during his last tour of England, told the Jamaica Observer.

"It was very emotional for me when I got out, not because I got out, it was because I didn't take my team across the line. I wasn't thinking about the hundred, I was just thinking about winning the game for my team."

The right-handed batsman, who has scored 1469 runs in 29 Tests for England so far, acknowledged the confidence shown by his captain Jason Holder and coach Phil Simmons.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-slams-loopholes-in-umpire-referral-system-312969" hreflang="en">Tendulkar slams loopholes in umpire referral system</a>

Coming to bat with West Indies tottering at 27-3, Blackwood rode his luck and guided his team closer to the target before a moment's lapse of concentration saw him hit straight to Jimmy Anderson at mid-off in the 61st over.

"When you know that the captain has all confidence in you it just makes you feel good. I know Jason from way back from my Under-15 days, so he knows what I'm capable of doing," he said.

"At no point in time when I was going to bat in the second innings I felt pressure. Just before I went out to bat, the coach (Phil Simmons) and the captain both told me just to play my natural game, but just be selective."

The second Test begins at Old Trafford on Thursday.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line.

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line. Blackwood said that he wasn’t thinking about the century but was more determined to take his team over the winning line. But an ill-timed lofted stroke, when he was at 95, allowed the ball to travel straight to the hands of James Anderson at mid-off. However, the Windies were still able to secure the historic win as they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series. The 28-year-old has always been successful against England, averaging over 50 with his only Test century also registered against England in Antigua in 2015. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test "I was very disappointed in myself when I got out at that stage of the game," Blackwood, who had scored 187 runs with a top score of 79 not out during his last tour of England, told the Jamaica Observer. "It was very emotional for me when I got out, not because I got out, it was because I didn't take my team across the line. I wasn't thinking about the hundred, I was just thinking about winning the game for my team." The right-handed batsman, who has scored 1469 runs in 29 Tests for England so far, acknowledged the confidence shown by his captain Jason Holder and coach Phil Simmons. ALSO READ: Tendulkar slams loopholes in umpire referral system Coming to bat with West Indies tottering at 27-3, Blackwood rode his luck and guided his team closer to the target before a moment's lapse of concentration saw him hit straight to Jimmy Anderson at mid-off in the 61st over. "When you know that the captain has all confidence in you it just makes you feel good. I know Jason from way back from my Under-15 days, so he knows what I'm capable of doing," he said. "At no point in time when I was going to bat in the second innings I felt pressure. Just before I went out to bat, the coach (Phil Simmons) and the captain both told me just to play my natural game, but just be selective." The second Test begins at Old Trafford on Thursday. (With inputs from PTI)

Disappointed for getting out before West Indies could cross the line: Blackwood

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly.

Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child.

The England selectors have big decisions to make after again losing the game with the bat rather than the ball despite the controversial omission of Stuart Broad.

An under-par 204 in the first innings and the loss of five wickets for 30 runs on the fourth evening set the platform for the tourists to take first blood.

Denly and Buttler were involved in both passages and find themselves increasingly under pressure for their places -- the former being squeezed by Root's return and Zak Crawley's fine 76 on Saturday, the latter from Surrey gloveman Ben Foakes.

England head coach Chris Silverwood, though, has only offered strong reassurance to one of the duo.

Buttler has a Test average of just 23.22 since the start of 2019 and now only one hundred in 75 innings.

"I'm not gonna go down that road yet of putting Jos under pressure, because I don't think it's going to help him," said Silverwood. "First and foremost we want to give Jos the best opportunity to succeed.

"But I'm sure he is asking the same questions. He looked brilliant coming into this game, in practice and everything and he looked very good in the first innings. He just needs to go and make those big scores now doesn't he? He knows that as well.

"From our point of view it's just making sure that he feels confident in the environment he's in."

There looks certain to be change higher up the order, though, with Denly's knocks of 18 and 29 doing little to show that he can haul his performances up to the required standard for a long-term Test number three.

At just 22, Crawley is 12 years Denley's junior and by producing England's top score of the match in tense circumstances in the second innings he appeared to make an irresistible grab for the shirt.

"We're all desperate to see Joe do really well. We can see he's trying hard, he's training hard and he's a great bloke, hence why we all went to see him do well," said Silverwood.

"But obviously he's under pressure a little bit, yes. Zak is improving constantly. I think he certainly showed maturity and the innings he played was very good.

"We have some young players in that side that seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and he's one of them. That's what we are looking for."

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly. Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child.

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly. Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child. The England selectors have big decisions to make after again losing the game with the bat rather than the ball despite the controversial omission of Stuart Broad. An under-par 204 in the first innings and the loss of five wickets for 30 runs on the fourth evening set the platform for the tourists to take first blood. Denly and Buttler were involved in both passages and find themselves increasingly under pressure for their places -- the former being squeezed by Root's return and Zak Crawley's fine 76 on Saturday, the latter from Surrey gloveman Ben Foakes. England head coach Chris Silverwood, though, has only offered strong reassurance to one of the duo. Buttler has a Test average of just 23.22 since the start of 2019 and now only one hundred in 75 innings. "I'm not gonna go down that road yet of putting Jos under pressure, because I don't think it's going to help him," said Silverwood. "First and foremost we want to give Jos the best opportunity to succeed. "But I'm sure he is asking the same questions. He looked brilliant coming into this game, in practice and everything and he looked very good in the first innings. He just needs to go and make those big scores now doesn't he? He knows that as well. "From our point of view it's just making sure that he feels confident in the environment he's in." There looks certain to be change higher up the order, though, with Denly's knocks of 18 and 29 doing little to show that he can haul his performances up to the required standard for a long-term Test number three. At just 22, Crawley is 12 years Denley's junior and by producing England's top score of the match in tense circumstances in the second innings he appeared to make an irresistible grab for the shirt. "We're all desperate to see Joe do really well. We can see he's trying hard, he's training hard and he's a great bloke, hence why we all went to see him do well," said Silverwood. "But obviously he's under pressure a little bit, yes. Zak is improving constantly. I think he certainly showed maturity and the innings he played was very good. "We have some young players in that side that seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and he's one of them. That's what we are looking for."

ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England to back Buttler, but Denly in the firing line

England should not be overly reliant on express pace in the next two tests against West Indies and must consider alternating Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, former quick Darren Gough has said.

England opted for the express speed of Archer and Wood and the experience of James Anderson in Southampton but lost by four wickets in the series opener.

“I’ve said from the start — rotate Archer and Wood,” Gough, who played 58 tests between 1994-2003, told Sky Sport Cricket.

“We got a bit carried away, seeing Wood bowl really quickly in South Africa. We’ve seen Archer do it, but it’s very hard to do it every single game.”

Gough said England should also bring back Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes for the second test, which begins on Thursday at Manchester’s Old Trafford.

“I would rest Wood and Anderson at Old Trafford and bring in Broad and Woakes,” Gough said.

“That would be my plan then, with back-to-back test matches, you bring Anderson and Wood back (for the third test).”

Former captain Michael Vaughan said it would be unfair to criticise Archer, who claimed three second-innings wickets in Southampton, for not bowling consistently in excess of 90 miles per hour.

“The body just doesn’t allow you to do it every single over that you bowl,” Vaughan told BBC Radio 5.

“But when you get that click, that six or seven overs where everything is in sync and you see the ball flying down at 90mph-plus causing chaos, that’s why you put Jofra Archer in your team.”

England should not be overly reliant on express pace in the next two tests against West Indies and must consider alternating Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, former quick Darren Gough has said.

England should not be overly reliant on express pace in the next two tests against West Indies and must consider alternating Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, former quick Darren Gough has said. England opted for the express speed of Archer and Wood and the experience of James Anderson in Southampton but lost by four wickets in the series opener. “I’ve said from the start — rotate Archer and Wood,” Gough, who played 58 tests between 1994-2003, told Sky Sport Cricket. “We got a bit carried away, seeing Wood bowl really quickly in South Africa. We’ve seen Archer do it, but it’s very hard to do it every single game.” Gough said England should also bring back Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes for the second test, which begins on Thursday at Manchester’s Old Trafford. “I would rest Wood and Anderson at Old Trafford and bring in Broad and Woakes,” Gough said. “That would be my plan then, with back-to-back test matches, you bring Anderson and Wood back (for the third test).” Former captain Michael Vaughan said it would be unfair to criticise Archer, who claimed three second-innings wickets in Southampton, for not bowling consistently in excess of 90 miles per hour. “The body just doesn’t allow you to do it every single over that you bowl,” Vaughan told BBC Radio 5. “But when you get that click, that six or seven overs where everything is in sync and you see the ball flying down at 90mph-plus causing chaos, that’s why you put Jofra Archer in your team.”

ENG vs WI: Darren Gough suggests England rotate Jofra Archer and Mark Wood

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton.

AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

<h2>Holder heroics</h2>

West Indies captain Jason Holder led from the front by taking a Test-best 6-42 in England's lowly first-innings 204 and the world's top-ranked all-rounder twice dismissed home counterpart Ben Stokes in this match as well.

He also showed plenty of tactical skill in the way he deployed his bowlers and had Stokes caught by the finer of two gully fielders he had cleverly deployed for the England talisman to spark a collapse that saw the hosts lose five wickets for 30 runs on Saturday.

<h2>Buttler's bad service</h2>

England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler's run of low scores in Test cricket continued with innings of 35 and nine at Southampton.

He was recalled to the Test side in one of Ed Smith's first acts as national selector in the hope he could transfer his one-day batting form into the five-day game.

But Buttler is now averaging a mediocre 21.38 from his last 11 Tests and the World Cup-winner also dropped Jermaine Blackwood on 20 before the West Indies batsman made a match-clinching 95 on Sunday.

England have Ben Foakes in their squad, with the Surrey wicketkeeper -- arguably a better gloveman than Buttler -- boasting a Test batting average of 41.30.&nbsp;

Foakes has also made one Test hundred in five matches compared to Buttler's one in 42.

<h2>Denly debate</h2>

The 33-year-old is in the England side as a specialist batsman but his dismissal for 29 on the fourth day means he has gone eight Test innings without reaching 40.

One of either Denly or Zak Crawley, who made 76 on Saturday, is set to make way when captain Joe Root returns for the second Test.

And it increasingly looks like Denly will be dropped with his innings on Saturday, which ended when he tamely chipped off-spinner Roston Chase to short midwicket, another example of an infuriating habit of throwing his wicket away after a sound start.&nbsp;

<h2>No crowds but plenty of passion</h2>

Spectators are barred from this three-match series as a health measure to combat COVID-19.

That had raised fears players might not be able to replicate their usual levels of intensity &nbsp;but there was no lack of effort or skill, even though England stand-in skipper Ben Stokes admitted the atmosphere was "strange". &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Umpires need to get their eye in</h2>

This was an awkward match for English officials Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough after the International Cricket Council relaxed rules on home umpires standing in Tests because of virus restrictions.

At one stage the pair saw five successive decisions overturned on review in favour of the West Indies.

The ICC have given teams an additional review each innings of this series to compensate for the lack of neutral officials and this Test was a reminder that umpires, just as much as players, need match time before entering the international arena.

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton. AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton. AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. Holder heroics West Indies captain Jason Holder led from the front by taking a Test-best 6-42 in England's lowly first-innings 204 and the world's top-ranked all-rounder twice dismissed home counterpart Ben Stokes in this match as well. He also showed plenty of tactical skill in the way he deployed his bowlers and had Stokes caught by the finer of two gully fielders he had cleverly deployed for the England talisman to spark a collapse that saw the hosts lose five wickets for 30 runs on Saturday. Buttler's bad service England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler's run of low scores in Test cricket continued with innings of 35 and nine at Southampton. He was recalled to the Test side in one of Ed Smith's first acts as national selector in the hope he could transfer his one-day batting form into the five-day game. But Buttler is now averaging a mediocre 21.38 from his last 11 Tests and the World Cup-winner also dropped Jermaine Blackwood on 20 before the West Indies batsman made a match-clinching 95 on Sunday. England have Ben Foakes in their squad, with the Surrey wicketkeeper -- arguably a better gloveman than Buttler -- boasting a Test batting average of 41.30. Foakes has also made one Test hundred in five matches compared to Buttler's one in 42. Denly debate The 33-year-old is in the England side as a specialist batsman but his dismissal for 29 on the fourth day means he has gone eight Test innings without reaching 40. One of either Denly or Zak Crawley, who made 76 on Saturday, is set to make way when captain Joe Root returns for the second Test. And it increasingly looks like Denly will be dropped with his innings on Saturday, which ended when he tamely chipped off-spinner Roston Chase to short midwicket, another example of an infuriating habit of throwing his wicket away after a sound start. No crowds but plenty of passion Spectators are barred from this three-match series as a health measure to combat COVID-19. That had raised fears players might not be able to replicate their usual levels of intensity but there was no lack of effort or skill, even though England stand-in skipper Ben Stokes admitted the atmosphere was "strange". Umpires need to get their eye in This was an awkward match for English officials Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough after the International Cricket Council relaxed rules on home umpires standing in Tests because of virus restrictions. At one stage the pair saw five successive decisions overturned on review in favour of the West Indies. The ICC have given teams an additional review each innings of this series to compensate for the lack of neutral officials and this Test was a reminder that umpires, just as much as players, need match time before entering the international arena.

England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England went with the troika of James Anderson, Jofra Archer while Mark Wood made the cut in the playing XI. However, both Archer and Wood were as the former went wicket-less while Wood picked up just a solitary wicket.&nbsp;

After Archer went wicket-less, former West Indies pacer Tino Best took to social media platform Twitter to criticise the Barbadian-born English speedster but Archer was quick to respond to the former pacer and took a dig at the 38-year-old.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/famed-india-cricket-stadium-to-be-used-for-coronavirus-quarantine-312546" hreflang="en">Famed India cricket stadium to be used for coronavirus quarantine</a>

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With all this knowledge how are you not a coach yet ? <a href="https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU">https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU</a>
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/JofraArcher/status/1281691991139594241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Don’t address me personally Young man , the fact remains your bowling toothpaste and u haven’t bowled Quickly since ASHES , now go sleep and get some rest for WI to beat ya ball in the second innings bye 👋🏾 Jorfa 🙏🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SleepTight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SleepTight</a>
— Tino95 (@tinobest) <a href="https://twitter.com/tinobest/status/1281703741327052800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-contacts-20-clubs-over-need-for-distancing-during-matches-312541" hreflang="en">Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches</a>

Broad, who was England’s highest wicket-taker in the last two Test series, ended up being frustrated and angry over his exclusion.&nbsp;

“I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough.To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement - you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen,” Broad said in the Sky Sports Player Zone.

“I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt, having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there,” he said.

Archer, who has been mighty impressive across formats for England, has been subjected to criticism following a couple of inconsistent innings and was targeted after he went wicket-less in the first innings of the Southampton Test against the Windies.

Meanwhile, England have started the second innings strong and the opening pair of Dom Sibley and Rory Burns have stitched a 70-run partnership on Day 4 at the Rose Bowl. However, they still trail by 50 runs.

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. England went with the troika of James Anderson, Jofra Archer while Mark Wood made the cut in the playing XI. However, both Archer and Wood were as the former went wicket-less while Wood picked up just a solitary wicket. After Archer went wicket-less, former West Indies pacer Tino Best took to social media platform Twitter to criticise the Barbadian-born English speedster but Archer was quick to respond to the former pacer and took a dig at the 38-year-old. ALSO READ: Famed India cricket stadium to be used for coronavirus quarantine With all this knowledge how are you not a coach yet ? https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU — Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) July 10, 2020 × Don’t address me personally Young man , the fact remains your bowling toothpaste and u haven’t bowled Quickly since ASHES , now go sleep and get some rest for WI to beat ya ball in the second innings bye 👋🏾 Jorfa 🙏🏾 #SleepTight — Tino95 (@tinobest) July 10, 2020 × ALSO READ: Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches Broad, who was England’s highest wicket-taker in the last two Test series, ended up being frustrated and angry over his exclusion. “I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough.To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement - you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen,” Broad said in the Sky Sports Player Zone. “I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt, having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there,” he said. Archer, who has been mighty impressive across formats for England, has been subjected to criticism following a couple of inconsistent innings and was targeted after he went wicket-less in the first innings of the Southampton Test against the Windies. Meanwhile, England have started the second innings strong and the opening pair of Dom Sibley and Rory Burns have stitched a 70-run partnership on Day 4 at the Rose Bowl. However, they still trail by 50 runs.

'How are you not a coach...' - Jofra Archer gets involved in online spat with ex-Windies pacer Tino Best

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday.

Holder, the world's top-ranked all-rounder, took 6-42 as England were dismissed for 204 to surpass his previous Test-best of 6-59 against Bangladesh at Kingston two years ago.

It was the sixth time in his last 10 Tests that the towering paceman had taken five or more wickets in an innings, with Thursday's return including the prize scalp of rival all-rounder and stand-in England captain Ben Stokes.

West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 success in the Caribbean last year -- when Holder made an unbeaten double century in an opening win at his Barbados home ground.

"I have done a good job so far but my Test is far from over," Holder told reporters after bad light forced an early close with West Indies 57-1, a deficit of 147 runs.&nbsp;

"I have a massive contribution to make with the bat," the 28-year-old added.

Holder had been struggling with an ankle injury in the lead-up to the series -- the first Test campaign since lockdown -- but still troubled England with his accuracy and late movement.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Big wicket' -</h2>

He also led from the front.

West Indies had twice dropped Stokes, second in the Test all-rounder rankings, before Holder had him caught behind for 43, the top score of the innings, to end a stand of 67 with Jos Buttler (35).

"It was a big wicket to get," said Holder. "We put down two chances and he was looking to make us pay.&nbsp;

"His partnership with Jos was starting to blossom into something that could really hurt us.&nbsp;

"But I was getting just enough movement to keep him at bay, keep him playing and eventually got the edge."

Holder added he had a particular reason for wanting to do well in England this time.

"I really wanted to get on the honours board at Lord's," Holder said.&nbsp;

"We were scheduled to play there but then due to COVID they shuffled it around," he added of a series where the bio-secure grounds of the Ageas Bowl and Old Trafford, the venue for the last two Tests, are being used instead.

"One of the things I have always strived to do is to score a hundred in England and get a five-wicket haul. I've ticked one box, now it's time to knuckle down and get a hundred."

England opted to leave out veteran paceman Stuart Broad and deploy fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood together for the first time in a Test.

But although both Archer and Wood topped speeds of 90 mph, it was James Anderson -- England's all-time most successful Test bowler -- who took the lone wicket of John Campbell.&nbsp;

"I think they are on top," said Wood of the West Indies.&nbsp;

"They have done really well today, bowled really well, showed us the way to go."&nbsp;

But Wood said the fact West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 4-62 meant he didn't have to cut his pace.

"Gabriel got four wickets and he bowls quick, so that doesn't mean me and Jofra need to bowl slower."

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday. Holder, the world's top-ranked all-rounder, took 6-42 as England were dismissed for 204 to surpass his previous Test-best of 6-59 against Bangladesh at Kingston two years ago. It was the sixth time in his last 10 Tests that the towering paceman had taken five or more wickets in an innings, with Thursday's return including the prize scalp of rival all-rounder and stand-in England captain Ben Stokes. West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 success in the Caribbean last year -- when Holder made an unbeaten double century in an opening win at his Barbados home ground. "I have done a good job so far but my Test is far from over," Holder told reporters after bad light forced an early close with West Indies 57-1, a deficit of 147 runs. "I have a massive contribution to make with the bat," the 28-year-old added. Holder had been struggling with an ankle injury in the lead-up to the series -- the first Test campaign since lockdown -- but still troubled England with his accuracy and late movement. - 'Big wicket' - He also led from the front. West Indies had twice dropped Stokes, second in the Test all-rounder rankings, before Holder had him caught behind for 43, the top score of the innings, to end a stand of 67 with Jos Buttler (35). "It was a big wicket to get," said Holder. "We put down two chances and he was looking to make us pay. "His partnership with Jos was starting to blossom into something that could really hurt us. "But I was getting just enough movement to keep him at bay, keep him playing and eventually got the edge." Holder added he had a particular reason for wanting to do well in England this time. "I really wanted to get on the honours board at Lord's," Holder said. "We were scheduled to play there but then due to COVID they shuffled it around," he added of a series where the bio-secure grounds of the Ageas Bowl and Old Trafford, the venue for the last two Tests, are being used instead. "One of the things I have always strived to do is to score a hundred in England and get a five-wicket haul. I've ticked one box, now it's time to knuckle down and get a hundred." England opted to leave out veteran paceman Stuart Broad and deploy fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood together for the first time in a Test. But although both Archer and Wood topped speeds of 90 mph, it was James Anderson -- England's all-time most successful Test bowler -- who took the lone wicket of John Campbell. "I think they are on top," said Wood of the West Indies. "They have done really well today, bowled really well, showed us the way to go." But Wood said the fact West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 4-62 meant he didn't have to cut his pace. "Gabriel got four wickets and he bowls quick, so that doesn't mean me and Jofra need to bowl slower."

Windies skipper Holder says he has more to do after six-wicket England haul

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday.

England’s decision to go with James Anderson, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood for the first test in Southampton snapped Broad’s run of 51 consecutive home tests.

“I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough,” the right-arm paceman told Sky Sports.

“To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement: you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen.

“I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted - because it’s quite a hard decision to understand.

“I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there.”

Broad said stand-in skipper Ben Stokes had explained his omission for the first match of the three-test series against West Indies.

“Stokesy told me just that they’re going with extra pace in these conditions,” said Broad.

“I wanted clarifications on the future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback going forward.

“I spoke to (national selector) Ed Smith last night and he said he’s involved in picking the 13 and this was picked purely for this pitch.”

Broad acknowledged competition was intense for a place in the pace department.

“We’re in quite a unique position this summer: very rarely do you get all your bowlers fit like we’ve got at the minute and all your bowlers ready to go,” he said.

“I don’t think I’ve got anything to prove - England know what I can do, the selectors know what I can do - and when I get that opportunity again you can bet I’ll be on the money.”

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday.

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday. England’s decision to go with James Anderson, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood for the first test in Southampton snapped Broad’s run of 51 consecutive home tests. “I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough,” the right-arm paceman told Sky Sports. “To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement: you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen. “I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted - because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. “I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there.” Broad said stand-in skipper Ben Stokes had explained his omission for the first match of the three-test series against West Indies. “Stokesy told me just that they’re going with extra pace in these conditions,” said Broad. “I wanted clarifications on the future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback going forward. “I spoke to (national selector) Ed Smith last night and he said he’s involved in picking the 13 and this was picked purely for this pitch.” Broad acknowledged competition was intense for a place in the pace department. “We’re in quite a unique position this summer: very rarely do you get all your bowlers fit like we’ve got at the minute and all your bowlers ready to go,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve got anything to prove - England know what I can do, the selectors know what I can do - and when I get that opportunity again you can bet I’ll be on the money.”

'Gutted' Broad sought future reassurance after Southampton snub

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years.

The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.4 overs being bowled.

ICC leaves it "solely for the umpires together to decide" whether bad light mean that "it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place."

Hussain, who has scored 5764 runs in 96 Tests for England, feels perhaps the umpires can keep the players on the ground longer even if light might be considered poor.

"It's one thing you have to try and explain to somebody new to the game. You spend a lot of money on lights, turn the lights on and go off for light. On this occasion, they've gone off for rain. It is something eventually that I'd like the ICC to change really," Hussain said on Sky Sports Cricket.

"They might say 'You're a retired player' and (talk about) stats, but look at that, the lights are on. If it wasn't raining now, maybe the players could buy into the fact that the game needs to keep selling itself and if you can stay on, do stay on."

The bad light laws have come for criticism in the past.

In 2013 Ashes series, chasing a target of 227, England required 21 off 24 balls with five wickets in hand when play was halted by the umpires due to bad light.

The bad light laws were again brought into question during the India vs Australia match at SCG in January last year when umpires called off play on the fourth day after ruling that light was poor to continue.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years. The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years. The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.4 overs being bowled. ICC leaves it "solely for the umpires together to decide" whether bad light mean that "it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place." Hussain, who has scored 5764 runs in 96 Tests for England, feels perhaps the umpires can keep the players on the ground longer even if light might be considered poor. "It's one thing you have to try and explain to somebody new to the game. You spend a lot of money on lights, turn the lights on and go off for light. On this occasion, they've gone off for rain. It is something eventually that I'd like the ICC to change really," Hussain said on Sky Sports Cricket. "They might say 'You're a retired player' and (talk about) stats, but look at that, the lights are on. If it wasn't raining now, maybe the players could buy into the fact that the game needs to keep selling itself and if you can stay on, do stay on." The bad light laws have come for criticism in the past. In 2013 Ashes series, chasing a target of 227, England required 21 off 24 balls with five wickets in hand when play was halted by the umpires due to bad light. The bad light laws were again brought into question during the India vs Australia match at SCG in January last year when umpires called off play on the fourth day after ruling that light was poor to continue.

Nasser Hussain wants ICC to change its 'bad light' laws

Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days.

All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday.

“They have to be able to pounce immediately,” the former West Indies captain told BBC Sport.

“England are not beaten very easily at home and are overwhelming favourites.

“They have to hit the road running and stamp their authority on England.

“I don’t think they can last five days, so they have to take these games in four days. They have to establish a lead and keep it.”

The three-test series, to be played in a bio-secure environment and without spectators, marks the resumption of international cricket after the coronavirus shutdown.

“It’s going to be a series that’s watched all around the world and everybody is hoping to see a competitive series,” said Lara, whose 400 not out against England remains test cricket’s highest individual score.

Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days. All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday.

Batting great Brian Lara has said West Indies’ best chance of victory against England is to race out to an early lead and secure the win inside five days. All-rounder Jason Holder is part of the tourists’ impressive bowling attack but questions remain about their batting ahead of the series opener beginning in Southampton later on Wednesday. “They have to be able to pounce immediately,” the former West Indies captain told BBC Sport. “England are not beaten very easily at home and are overwhelming favourites. “They have to hit the road running and stamp their authority on England. “I don’t think they can last five days, so they have to take these games in four days. They have to establish a lead and keep it.” The three-test series, to be played in a bio-secure environment and without spectators, marks the resumption of international cricket after the coronavirus shutdown. “It’s going to be a series that’s watched all around the world and everybody is hoping to see a competitive series,” said Lara, whose 400 not out against England remains test cricket’s highest individual score.

West Indies must try to win inside four days, Brian Lara says

Rain delayed the start on Wednesday of the first Test between England and the West Indies at Southampton, the first international match since March.

The eagerly anticipated fixture marks the sport's global return from months of coronavirus-enforced lockdown.

But as the players warmed up on the outfield under grey skies, there was sufficient rain for the Ageas Bowl pitch to remain fully covered and prevent the toss taking place at 0930 GMT as scheduled.

No spectators will be allowed to attend the three-Test series, which concludes with two matches at Old Trafford.

Players and officials are staying at on-site hotels to stop the spread of COVID-19, with bowlers unable to use saliva to shine the ball as a health measure.

LIVE |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-1st-test-day-1-live-updates-toss-delayed-due-to-gloomy-weather-311592" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies 1st Test, Day 1 Live Updates: Toss delayed due to gloomy weather</a>

International travel restrictions mean that, for the first time since 2002, both on-field umpires came from one of the competing teams, with English officials Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth in the middle.

Match referee Chris Broad could find himself presiding over a match involving his son Stuart if the England paceman is selected in the hosts' final XI.

But any disciplinary issues are set to be referred to a remote referee.

Ben Stokes will captain England for the first time, with regular skipper Joe Root missing the match because of the birth of his second child.

West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 series win in the Caribbean last year.

Jason Holder's side have gone ahead with the tour even though Britain has the highest virus toll in Europe, with more than 44,000 deaths.

Rain delayed the start on Wednesday of the first Test between England and the West Indies at Southampton, the first international match since March. The eagerly anticipated fixture marks the sport's global return from months of coronavirus-enforced lockdown.

Rain delayed the start on Wednesday of the first Test between England and the West Indies at Southampton, the first international match since March. The eagerly anticipated fixture marks the sport's global return from months of coronavirus-enforced lockdown. But as the players warmed up on the outfield under grey skies, there was sufficient rain for the Ageas Bowl pitch to remain fully covered and prevent the toss taking place at 0930 GMT as scheduled. No spectators will be allowed to attend the three-Test series, which concludes with two matches at Old Trafford. Players and officials are staying at on-site hotels to stop the spread of COVID-19, with bowlers unable to use saliva to shine the ball as a health measure. LIVE | England vs West Indies 1st Test, Day 1 Live Updates: Toss delayed due to gloomy weather International travel restrictions mean that, for the first time since 2002, both on-field umpires came from one of the competing teams, with English officials Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth in the middle. Match referee Chris Broad could find himself presiding over a match involving his son Stuart if the England paceman is selected in the hosts' final XI. But any disciplinary issues are set to be referred to a remote referee. Ben Stokes will captain England for the first time, with regular skipper Joe Root missing the match because of the birth of his second child. West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 series win in the Caribbean last year. Jason Holder's side have gone ahead with the tour even though Britain has the highest virus toll in Europe, with more than 44,000 deaths.

Rain delays international cricket's return in England-West Indies Test

Key worker heroes from across the cricket family were on Wednesday honoured by having their names displayed on the training shirts of the England Men’s Test team ahead of the start of the first #raisethebat Test against the West Indies.

The three-Test series, taking place behind closed doors, is honouring and celebrating the heroes who have been going above and beyond to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, the England Men’s players and coaches took to the pitch at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton, wearing the names of key workers on their training shirts before the start of the match. The people named on the shirts were all nominated by their local cricket clubs and include teachers, doctors, nurses, carers and other vital professions.

Each key worker will now receive the shirt bearing their name, signed by the player who wore it, to thank them for the work they’ve been doing. Their names and photos will also be highlighted in broadcast partners’ Sky and BBC’s coverage and displayed across the ground on the big screens and LED banners.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-1st-test-day-1-live-updates-stokes-and-holder-face-off-as-international-cricket-returns-311592" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies 1st Test, Day 1 Live Updates: Stokes and Holder face-off as international cricket returns</a>

Ben Stokes, who is captaining England in the first Test while Joe Root is away for the birth of his second child, took to the pitch wearing the name of Durham-local Dr Vikas Kumar, a specialist in anaesthetics and critical care at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Through the pandemic, Dr Kumar, a keen cricketer who plays at Cowgate Cricket Club in Newcastle and the Gilli Boys Amateur Club in Darlington, has been working on the frontline while also being there for his family at home.

Ben Stokes said:&nbsp;“We’re only able to play this Test match because of the amazing job that key workers up and down the country have done to help us through this pandemic. Wearing their names is a real honour for us, and is a small sign of our appreciation for the incredible work they have done. They have truly gone in to bat for us all, and it makes me proud of how the whole cricket family has responded to help us get through these unprecedented times.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-1st-test-weather-updates-and-forecast-for-day-1-in-southampton-311576" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI 1st Test: Weather updates and forecast for Day 1 in Southampton</a>

Dr Vikas Kumar, whose name featured on Ben Stokes’s shirt, said:&nbsp;“The past four months have been very difficult, but it was a wonderful surprise to find out that Ben Stokes of all people is wearing my name on his training shirt. So many of my colleagues at work and at the cricket club have been working so hard and made big sacrifices, so this is for them as well.”

The other key workers being celebrated today include:

<ul data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Dr Samara Afzal, a GP in Birmingham, who shared the moment with Chris Woakes, also a West-Midlands local. Dr Afzal is a chief medical adviser to the National Asian Cricket Council and last year supported a successful pilot which used cricket as a way to get her female patients from the South Asian community more action.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Sussex-based paramedic Joe Wheatley is one of those honoured, with Sussex player Jofra Archer wearing the Barcombe Cricket Club member’s name on his training shirt. Joe offers fantastic support to those he treats and their families, often being a patient’s first contact with medical staff during an emergency. When he’s not driving an ambulance, he’s manning the heavy roller as Barcombe’s groundsman and has kept the pitches maintained throughout the postponement of recreational cricket.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Chris Tall is a pillar of his local cricket club, Newark Ransome &amp; Marles Cricket Club, where he volunteers as groundsman, coach and on the committee. He had to step away from his club as the pandemic developed, however, to focus his attention on caring for the residents in the care home at which he works. His efforts and sacrifices at such a crucial time led to his teammates nominating him. This morning he featured on the shirt of Stuart Broad who plays for Chris’s home county of Nottinghamshire.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Pace bowler Mark Wood will recognise local hero Susan Bainbridge on his training shirt. Susan is a volunteer at the North East Ambulance Service but in her spare time runs Zumba classes for older people throughout Teesdale. During the pandemic, the Middleton-in-Teesdale cricketer has taken her exercise classes online through Zoom to ensure the community can keep active.</li>
</ul>

Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said:&nbsp;“Along with fans up and down the country, we are very excited that our England Men’s players are back on the cricket field today. However, we will never forget those we’ve lost and the sacrifices made by so many people during this pandemic. Key workers and volunteers across the country have often put their own lives on the line to keep us safe, and it’s right that today we say a small thank you to some of those from the cricket family who have done us so proud.”

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">English players wearing the name of key workers:</h2>

Ben Foakes – Emily Blakemore, Nurse

Ollie Robinson – Dr Nasir Ali, Emergency Medicine Consultant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Jofra Archer – Joe Wheatley, Paramedic

Jack Leach – Ollie Clarke, NHS volunteer

Olly Stone – Holly Buxton, Organiser of the COVID-19 Community Workforce for the elderly

Dominic Bess – Wendy Morris, Nurse

Mark Wood – Susan Bainbridge, NEAS Ambulance Volunteer

Stuart Broad – Chris Tall , Care Home Worker

James Anderson – Tom Field, Nurse Practitioner

Dan Lawrence – Richard Freeman, Police Officer

Joe Denly – Anna Tunnicliff, A&amp;E Sister

Zak Crawley – Debi Armstrong, Specialist Nurse

Craig Overton – Dale Hardy, Head Teacher at Sir Robert Pattinson Academy

James Bracey – Harikrishna Shah, Clinic Coordinator

Chris Woakes – Dr Samara Afzal – Doctor

Ben Stokes – Dr Vikas Kumar, Specialist in Anaesthetics and Critical Care

Saqib Mahmood – Kishan Aghada, Physiotherapist

Sam Curran – Victor Hinds, Hospital Distribution Officer

Ollie Pope – Yahya Hafejee, Support Leader at Department for Work and Pensions

Rory Burns – Sharmyn Kennedy, Teacher

Jos Buttler – Dr Jamasp Kaikhusroo Dastur, Surgeon

Dom Sibley – Mohammed Banaris, Operations Manager for G4S and ran COVID-19 testing centre

Chris Silverwood – Matthew Rammell, Respiratory Physiotherapist

Graham Thorpe – Dr Chris Boyson, Doctor

Phil Scott – Chantel Jacklin, Healthcare Assistant&nbsp;

Key worker heroes from across the cricket family were on Wednesday honoured by having their names displayed on the training shirts of the England Men’s Test team ahead of the start of the first #raisethebat Test against the West Indies.

Key worker heroes from across the cricket family were on Wednesday honoured by having their names displayed on the training shirts of the England Men’s Test team ahead of the start of the first #raisethebat Test against the West Indies. The three-Test series, taking place behind closed doors, is honouring and celebrating the heroes who have been going above and beyond to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the England Men’s players and coaches took to the pitch at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton, wearing the names of key workers on their training shirts before the start of the match. The people named on the shirts were all nominated by their local cricket clubs and include teachers, doctors, nurses, carers and other vital professions. Each key worker will now receive the shirt bearing their name, signed by the player who wore it, to thank them for the work they’ve been doing. Their names and photos will also be highlighted in broadcast partners’ Sky and BBC’s coverage and displayed across the ground on the big screens and LED banners. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies 1st Test, Day 1 Live Updates: Stokes and Holder face-off as international cricket returns Ben Stokes, who is captaining England in the first Test while Joe Root is away for the birth of his second child, took to the pitch wearing the name of Durham-local Dr Vikas Kumar, a specialist in anaesthetics and critical care at Darlington Memorial Hospital. Through the pandemic, Dr Kumar, a keen cricketer who plays at Cowgate Cricket Club in Newcastle and the Gilli Boys Amateur Club in Darlington, has been working on the frontline while also being there for his family at home. Ben Stokes said: “We’re only able to play this Test match because of the amazing job that key workers up and down the country have done to help us through this pandemic. Wearing their names is a real honour for us, and is a small sign of our appreciation for the incredible work they have done. They have truly gone in to bat for us all, and it makes me proud of how the whole cricket family has responded to help us get through these unprecedented times.” ALSO READ: ENG vs WI 1st Test: Weather updates and forecast for Day 1 in Southampton Dr Vikas Kumar, whose name featured on Ben Stokes’s shirt, said: “The past four months have been very difficult, but it was a wonderful surprise to find out that Ben Stokes of all people is wearing my name on his training shirt. So many of my colleagues at work and at the cricket club have been working so hard and made big sacrifices, so this is for them as well.” The other key workers being celebrated today include: Dr Samara Afzal, a GP in Birmingham, who shared the moment with Chris Woakes, also a West-Midlands local. Dr Afzal is a chief medical adviser to the National Asian Cricket Council and last year supported a successful pilot which used cricket as a way to get her female patients from the South Asian community more action. Sussex-based paramedic Joe Wheatley is one of those honoured, with Sussex player Jofra Archer wearing the Barcombe Cricket Club member’s name on his training shirt. Joe offers fantastic support to those he treats and their families, often being a patient’s first contact with medical staff during an emergency. When he’s not driving an ambulance, he’s manning the heavy roller as Barcombe’s groundsman and has kept the pitches maintained throughout the postponement of recreational cricket. Chris Tall is a pillar of his local cricket club, Newark Ransome & Marles Cricket Club, where he volunteers as groundsman, coach and on the committee. He had to step away from his club as the pandemic developed, however, to focus his attention on caring for the residents in the care home at which he works. His efforts and sacrifices at such a crucial time led to his teammates nominating him. This morning he featured on the shirt of Stuart Broad who plays for Chris’s home county of Nottinghamshire. Pace bowler Mark Wood will recognise local hero Susan Bainbridge on his training shirt. Susan is a volunteer at the North East Ambulance Service but in her spare time runs Zumba classes for older people throughout Teesdale. During the pandemic, the Middleton-in-Teesdale cricketer has taken her exercise classes online through Zoom to ensure the community can keep active. Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: “Along with fans up and down the country, we are very excited that our England Men’s players are back on the cricket field today. However, we will never forget those we’ve lost and the sacrifices made by so many people during this pandemic. Key workers and volunteers across the country have often put their own lives on the line to keep us safe, and it’s right that today we say a small thank you to some of those from the cricket family who have done us so proud.” English players wearing the name of key workers: Ben Foakes – Emily Blakemore, Nurse Ollie Robinson – Dr Nasir Ali, Emergency Medicine Consultant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Jofra Archer – Joe Wheatley, Paramedic Jack Leach – Ollie Clarke, NHS volunteer Olly Stone – Holly Buxton, Organiser of the COVID-19 Community Workforce for the elderly Dominic Bess – Wendy Morris, Nurse Mark Wood – Susan Bainbridge, NEAS Ambulance Volunteer Stuart Broad – Chris Tall , Care Home Worker James Anderson – Tom Field, Nurse Practitioner Dan Lawrence – Richard Freeman, Police Officer Joe Denly – Anna Tunnicliff, A&E Sister Zak Crawley – Debi Armstrong, Specialist Nurse Craig Overton – Dale Hardy, Head Teacher at Sir Robert Pattinson Academy James Bracey – Harikrishna Shah, Clinic Coordinator Chris Woakes – Dr Samara Afzal – Doctor Ben Stokes – Dr Vikas Kumar, Specialist in Anaesthetics and Critical Care Saqib Mahmood – Kishan Aghada, Physiotherapist Sam Curran – Victor Hinds, Hospital Distribution Officer Ollie Pope – Yahya Hafejee, Support Leader at Department for Work and Pensions Rory Burns – Sharmyn Kennedy, Teacher Jos Buttler – Dr Jamasp Kaikhusroo Dastur, Surgeon Dom Sibley – Mohammed Banaris, Operations Manager for G4S and ran COVID-19 testing centre Chris Silverwood – Matthew Rammell, Respiratory Physiotherapist Graham Thorpe – Dr Chris Boyson, Doctor Phil Scott – Chantel Jacklin, Healthcare Assistant

ENG vs WI: Ben Stokes leads tribute with key worker names featuring on his team’s shirts as first Test gets under way

International cricket is finally back with England and West Indies set to lock horns in the first Test at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton after a break of more than 115 days. However, things might not be so rosy for the players and fans as rain gods are set to play spoilsport throughout the course of the series opener in Southampton with the weather forecast predicting light to heavy showers.&nbsp;

While strict safety measures, social distancing guidelines and new rules such as saliva ban and COVID substitutions are ready to be tested in the international circuit, no one can help when it comes to the wrath of nature.&nbsp;

The match will be played without fans in the stadiums and fake crowd noise and music to enhance the atmosphere will be implemented in the stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-monty-panesar-on-england-vs-west-indies-series-ben-stokes-new-norms-and-more-311445" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Monty Panesar on England vs West Indies series, Ben Stokes, new norms and more</a>

<h2>Rain to play spoilsport in Southampton?</h2>

For fans, who have been eagerly waiting for the three-match Test series, the Day 1 and Day 2 of the Southampton Test might very well be interrupted due to rain. While the entire day is not expected to be washed out, frequent breaks could happen due to the rain gods making their presence felt. On Wednesday morning, it was a stop and a go for the rain gods in Southampton but media present there said they expect around 50 overs to be played on Day 1.

<img alt="Southampton weather update" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bac17e6f-0e88-4949-b9e4-29b458e820c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rain.JPG" />

Dark clouds are predicted to make way for sunny spells with temperatures set to tickle between 9-24 degrees Celcius. Humidity could be around 83 per cent.

The pitch is expected to be on the slower side but with moisture expected to creep in, pacers could have fun on the Ageas Bowl track.&nbsp; 
England go into the series as favourites and will bank on their bowling attack to do much of the damage.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

International cricket is finally back with England and West Indies set to lock horns in the first Test at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton after a break of more than 115 days.

International cricket is finally back with England and West Indies set to lock horns in the first Test at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton after a break of more than 115 days. However, things might not be so rosy for the players and fans as rain gods are set to play spoilsport throughout the course of the series opener in Southampton with the weather forecast predicting light to heavy showers. While strict safety measures, social distancing guidelines and new rules such as saliva ban and COVID substitutions are ready to be tested in the international circuit, no one can help when it comes to the wrath of nature. The match will be played without fans in the stadiums and fake crowd noise and music to enhance the atmosphere will be implemented in the stadium. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Monty Panesar on England vs West Indies series, Ben Stokes, new norms and more Rain to play spoilsport in Southampton? For fans, who have been eagerly waiting for the three-match Test series, the Day 1 and Day 2 of the Southampton Test might very well be interrupted due to rain. While the entire day is not expected to be washed out, frequent breaks could happen due to the rain gods making their presence felt. On Wednesday morning, it was a stop and a go for the rain gods in Southampton but media present there said they expect around 50 overs to be played on Day 1. Dark clouds are predicted to make way for sunny spells with temperatures set to tickle between 9-24 degrees Celcius. Humidity could be around 83 per cent. The pitch is expected to be on the slower side but with moisture expected to creep in, pacers could have fun on the Ageas Bowl track. England go into the series as favourites and will bank on their bowling attack to do much of the damage.

ENG vs WI 1st Test: Weather updates and forecast for Day 1 in Southampton

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