West Indies are confident of upsetting England this summer despite a lack of three first-team members, who opted against touring because of fears over the coronavirus pandemic.
Shimron Hetmyer, Darren Bravo and Keemo Paul all declared themselves unwilling to travel next week for the three-Test series at Old Trafford and the Ageas Bowl when the squad was announced on Wednesday.
But West Indies chief selector Roger Harper said he was confident the 14-man squad, which will travel with 11 back-up players, could defeat England next month.
“I think we have a squad that will very competitive,” he said. “More than half of the squad were involved in the victorious Test series against England in the Caribbean last year so they will bring that experience, that knowledge and belief with them and marry it to the enthusiasm and vitality of the newcomers.
“The experiences of the players who toured England before in 2017 will also benefit the squad greatly. I expect that the bowling unit will once again provide a serious challenge for England and our batting will have to deliver.
“England is a tough team when playing in home conditions. However, I think the West Indies have a good chance of retaining the Wisden Trophy. We will have to bat consistently well to do so.”
