WI vs IND: Miguel Cummins replaced by Keemo Paul for Jamaica Test

Keemo Paul

The West Indian selectors have drafted in fit-again Keemo Paul for the second Test against India in Jamaica. He replaces pacer Miguel Cummins who was ineffective in the first Test at Antigua. Paul’s inclusion is the only change in the squad as West Indies aim to strike back after a devastating loss in the opening Test of the series.

Paul was set to play the first Test, but an untimely ankle injury led to Cummins replacing him. Cummins was ineffective in both the innings of the match. He went wicketless in the Test, conceding 69 runs and bowling only 20 overs. The second Test could see a straight swap between the two players unless conditions are conducive to spin bowling. In such a scenario, Rahkeem Cornwall could be handed his maiden Test cap.

Apart from the change in bowling, the Windies will have to address many key issues in the second Test. They were less than convincing with the bat, especially in the second innings. They had no reply to India’s quality pace bowling attack and crumbled like a pack of cards. The bowling unit also looked ineffective against the class of the Indian batters.

The second Test will get underway at the iconic Sabina Park in Jamaica on August 30. While West Indies will make some changes, India are likely to persist with the same combination. With a win, India could shoot to the top of the ICC World Test Championship table with a full quota of 120 points.

West Indies squad: Jason Holder (c), Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jahmar Hamilton, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope, Shannon Gabriel, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach.