The West Indies team is going to square off against New Zealand in the first match of the ODI series on August 17 at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados.
While the hosting team has been in sort of a slump in the ODI format this year, the visitors have had some of the most prolific victories. In the last T20I match against the Kiwis, the Men in Maroon came out victorious in the last match but lost the series by 2-1.
West Indies couldn't perform that well in the recent ODI matches, as it lost the series by 0-3 against India, by 0-3 against Bangladesh, and by 0-3 against Pakistan. Their last ODI win came in June against the Netherlands.
The New Zealand team, on the other hand, have showed prolific performances. They have won the last five ODI matches against the hosts as well.
With numerous outstanding players for the upcoming match, both the teams are definitely looking forward to an exciting game, while aiming to start off their records on a high note.
Match Prediction
Considering the team combination, current form and recent marvellous wins, the New Zealand team is indeed brimming with confidence. They are expected to have a comfortable victory. The hosting team's - West Indies - ODI squad is in a building phase, while the visitors are currently riding on a winning momentum.
Nevertheless, a cracking match is definitely in the picture.
West Indies vs New Zealand Head-to-Head:
Total – 65
West Indies – 30
New Zealand – 28
Tied – 00
No result – 07
West Indies vs New Zealand, 1st ODI Match Preview
Match: West Indies vs New Zealand, 1st ODI
Date and Time: 17th August (Wednesday) at 11:30 PM IST and 2:00 PM Local Time
Venue: Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados
Pitch Report
We are expecting a high-scoring match between the two teams. The pitch at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, is known for helping with a good contest between the bat and the ball. Chasing is usually considered to be the preferred option on this ground.
Weather Forecast
The upcoming match will probably get hit with interruptions, as there’s a 31-51% rain probability during match hours. Therefore, one or more rain breaks do not seem uncommon.
Injury Report
New Zealand Matt Henry has been replaced by Ben Sears in the series due to a severe rib injury.
Probable XIs
West Indies
Shai Hope (wk), Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Shamarh Brooks, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul
New Zealand
Martin Guptil, Tom Latham (wk), Kane Williamson (c), Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, James Neesham, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi
West Indies
Devon Thomas, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Kyle Mayers, Hayden Walsh, Shamarh Brooks, Nicholas Pooran, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Odean Smith, Keemo Paul, Rovman Powell, Obed McCoy, Romario Shepherd and Dominic Drakes
New Zealand
Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, James Neesham, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips and Finn Allen