The West Indies are likely to stick with their pace-heavy strategy for the second and final Test against Bangladesh in Jamaica, continuing the approach that brought them success in the opening Test. The hosts fielded a five-pronged pace attack with no specialist spinners in the first Test, and the results vindicated their choice.

Speaking ahead of the second Test, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressed his satisfaction with the conditions at Sabina Park. The pitch, covered with grass and retaining moisture due to recent rain, is expected to favor fast bowlers.

“It’s a completely different surface. There’s a good amount of grass, and I’m happy to see that. With the moisture from the rain, it looks fresh, and we’re eager to start strong,” Brathwaite said.

Brathwaite reminisced about West Indies’ dramatic one-wicket win over Pakistan in 2021 at the same venue. Reflecting on his crucial second-innings knock of 97 runs and the bowlers’ dominance in exploiting the conditions, he added:

“Jamaica is a place I love, and so does the team. I remember building a crucial partnership against Pakistan to secure that win. The bowlers enjoyed using the seam-friendly conditions throughout the match. I plan to share those experiences with our bowlers. It’s great to have Kemar Roach here as well.”

Brathwaite expressed immense faith in the current pace attack, which overwhelmed Bangladesh’s batting line-up in the first Test. Highlighting their individual strengths and potential, he said:

“I have full confidence in our pacers. Each of them brings unique skills to the table, and I’m genuinely excited about their future. Their hard work and determination inspire me.”

West Indies bowlers proved to be too much for Bangladesh in the first Test, with the visitors’ top order crumbling in both innings. The team is set to rely on their pacers again as they aim to seal the series 2-0.