West Indies vs South Africa – 1st Test – Preview, Playing XI, Pitch Report & Updates

West Indies and South Africa don't play Test cricket against each other too often. The last time these two teams faced each other in Tests was nearly six years back. West Indies come into this series undefeated in their last four games. They defeated Bangladesh 2-0 before playing out a 0-0 draw against Sri Lanka. The core of the team is playing together for a while now and they've shown some improvement over the last few years.

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In Kraigg Brathwaite, they have a dependable skipper and a batsman. He is going to be supported by Kieran Powell, Shai Hope, Nkrumah Bonner, and Roston Chase in the batting lineup. Also, the likes of Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva and Rakheem Cornwall are pretty handy with the bat and add a lot of depth to the team. The batting is back by a class bowling comprising Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Jason Holder and Jayden Seales. 

South Africa has seen a massive slump of late. However, under Dean Elgar, they will hope for a change in fortunes. They have a few exciting but slightly untested batsmen in their team. Aiden Markram is back in the squad and is going to open with Dean Elgar. Rassie van der Dussen should take up the No. 3 slot followed by Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne.

There is going to be a toss-up between Geroge Linde and Wiaan Mulder for the all-rounder spot. While there are some weak links in batting, their bowling is one of the best in world cricket. The trio of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi is going to be at the West Indian throats while Keshav Maharaj will look to dry up runs.

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Pitch Report

The conditions in St. Lucia have been favourable for fast bowling and given the quality in both teams, the batsmen have their tasks cut out. 

When are where to watch West Indies vs South Africa

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The Indian fans can enjoy the live streaming of the two-match Test series on the Fancode app.  

India: Fancode

South Africa: SuperSports Channel

Caribbean: Flow Sports

Probable XI's

West Indies 

Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Shai Hope, Nkrumah Bonner, Kyle Mayers, Jermaine Blackwood/Kieran Powell, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Rahkeem Cornwall, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales

South Africa 

Dean Elgar (c) , Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, Kyle Verreynne, Quinton de Kock (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Beuran Hendricks, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje