On what is expected to be a dynamic and fast pitch at Optus Stadium, a far cry from the slower Caribbean surfaces, the West Indies have been urged to be restrained and patient against Australia’s experienced batsmen in the first Test which begins on Wednesday.
Having not won a Test in Australia for 25 years, the West Indies are the underdogs in the two-Test series, but their quick talents provide hope of a positive result on favorable terms for the bowlers. While it will be tempting for them to unleash an all-out assault against a team returning from a four-month Test break, they have been advised against bowling too full or too short on a pitch where runs can come quickly.
“I think the most important thing for our bowlers is to make sure the Australian batsmen work very hard for their careers. We just have to assess the conditions early and make the necessary adjustments.”
Holder said he would be available to bowl in the Tests after not being used for the two warm-up matches.
“We’ve been through a lot as a team and it’s not going to be an easy tour”
jason holder
“He’s got pace and he’s very aggressive. A guy that will be an enforcer,” Holder said of Joseph, who can consistently throw around 145kph/90mph. The added responsibility underscores Joseph’s growing maturity after making his Test debut aged 19 in 2016.
“Actually, I was quite surprised that she’s 26… we celebrated her birthday on tour recently,” Holder said. “It’s unbelievable how much time has passed, it’s good to see him fit and healthy. He’s obviously developed a lot because he was very introverted and didn’t say much in the dressing room. He feels much more comfortable with his teammates, he’s one of the more experienced activists when it comes to cricket in all formats”.
“I think Jayden has a lot of ability … he has swing and control. I think those are his two biggest attributes,” Holder said. “Maybe there’s not much swing in these conditions, but it’s good enough to extract some movement.”
“If you look at the core of the test side, I think we’ve been together for the last five or six years,” Holder said. “I think that’s really important compared to the other sides…probably a little more cut and switch.
“I think our long-form cricket has really developed, so those are very good signs and a lot of our players are developing.”
“It’s a tour where people can make a name for themselves. Kemar Roach…has become one of our leading bowlers,” Holder said. “We’ve been through a lot as a team and it’s not going to be an easy tour.”
