West Indies looking for improved batting performance in second Test

West Indies will be looking for an improved performance from their batting as they head into the second Test match against Pakistan in Jamaica.

Speaking yesterday at a virtual press conference, West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite said that patience and discipline will be key once again as it has been for any Test match.

But in order to get the edge and possibly win the Test match, a lot will rely on the batting and scoring runs.

The pitch for the second Test will be the one next to the pitch used in the first match and Brathwaite believes they look similar and will play similar.

“The pitch had in something throughout the game and who shows the most patience as a batting group that will be crucial.”

The bowling has been one of the consistent keys for the West Indies. “As a bowling group, we were fantastic.”

But there are improvements to be made with the batting, as the batsmen will need to put up higher scores in order to give the team a better chance at winning.

Being patient and letting the bowlers come to them, and being willing to put in the work as Test match cricket is never easy are some of the factors identified by Brathwaite, who believes the players were all ready to give it their best.

“The guys are looking forward to the challenge and we know it is Test cricket and it is never easy and you have to work hard and the guys are willing to put in that work.”

Brathwaite also highlighted the senior players on the team for their input in the game and communication with the younger players on the team and when asked about Jason Holder, said that he was a vital part of the team.

“[Jason] is very important, each individual is important to the team and he is number one in the world and stats don’t lie.”

The first Test saw the winning runs struck by the West Indies’ Kemar Roach, which gave the regional side a one-wicket victory. It also helped the West Indies to an early second-place spot on the table in the World Test Championship, which just started a new two-year cycle.

Shai Hope may be an option to boost the batting after Kieran Powell did not make an impact and with the fast bowlers doing all of the wicket taking, it may open the door for another pacer to be added to the attack since Roston Chase is a capable all-rounder who spins the ball.