West Indies could be in for a big blow ahead of the third and final match against England. After losing both matches, the visitors will be looking to end the series on a high note.
However, their hopes could take a hit as one of their key players is in doubt for the match. Fast bowler Shamar Joseph could miss the final match of the three-match Test series due to flu. With the third Test match scheduled to begin on Friday (July 26), Shamar Joseph is in a race against time to be fit for the clash.
Shamar Joseph’s inclusion is critical
If we talk about Shamar Joseph’s performance in the series so far, he has picked up 2 wickets in two Tests. The highly regarded player did not pick up any wicket in the first game at Lord’s. In the second game at Trent Bridge, he picked up one wicket in each of the two innings and also played a crucial knock of 33 runs in the first innings.
Although Shamar Joseph has not lived up to expectations so far, West Indies will be hoping that he remains fit for the third match. In case the player does not recover in time for the match, uncapped Akeem Jordan could make his debut, according to ESPNcricinfo.
Jordan was not part of the original squad and was recently brought in as an injury replacement. The 29-year-old replaced pacer Jeremiah Louis, who was ruled out of the final Test due to a hamstring injury. Before being called up, Jordan was playing domestic cricket in the United Kingdom.
While Jordan is yet to play a Test, he has managed to make a good impact in red-ball cricket. In 19 first-class games, he has picked up 67 wickets at an average of 24.10. He has also picked up two five-wicket hauls. The other fast bowling options in the West Indies team are Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales and former captain Jason Holder.
West Indies look for a winning finish:
West Indies will be looking to end the series on a winning note after suffering crushing defeats in the first two games. In the first game, England thrashed the Kraigg Brathwaite-led side by an innings and 114 runs.
In the second match, England beat the Caribbean side by 241 runs to clinch the series with one match to spare. Meanwhile, England have not changed the starting XI for the third Test match.