England vs West Indies – 1st T20I Match Preview (2025)

Match: England vs West Indies, 1st T20I
Date: June 6, 2025
Time: 18:30 GMT / 11:00 PM IST
Venue: Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street, England

Pitch and Weather Report

The Riverside Ground is known for its well-balanced surface, offering fair assistance to both batters and bowlers. Historically, the average first-innings score has been around 165 runs. The pitch is particularly helpful for fast bowlers, and the overcast conditions can assist spinners as the game progresses.

Weather conditions are expected to be mild with a temperature of approximately 16°C. There is a high possibility of light drizzle during the match, with 50% cloud cover and a wind speed of up to 18 km/h. The humidity level is likely to be around 54%, which could influence the bounce and grip for bowlers.

Team News and Probable Playing XI

England:

England has been in good form, having won the recent ODI series against the West Indies 2-1. However, they face a few absences ahead of the T20I opener. Jofra Archer and Mark Wood are unavailable due to injuries, while Phil Salt is ruled out due to personal reasons.

England will rely heavily on their middle-order batters and the experience of Jos Buttler, who will lead the side. Adil Rashid and Saqib Mahmood will be key in the bowling department, supported by the all-round contributions of Luke Wood and Brydon Carse.

Probable Playing XI:
Jos Buttler (wk & C), Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Saqib Mahmood, Adil Rashid, Jamie Overton, Luke Wood.

West Indies:

The West Indies have made a strong return to the T20I fold with the inclusion of Jason Holder and Andre Russell, two of their most experienced and explosive players. Nicholas Pooran is rested, but the team still retains a potent batting lineup with the likes of Brandon King, Shai Hope, and Sherfane Rutherford.

With Holder anchoring the innings and Russell providing the finishing touches, the West Indies will be looking to capitalize on the conditions and push for a series win in England.

Probable Playing XI:
Shai Hope (wk & C), Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie.

Head-to-Head (T20I)

• Matches Played: 35
• England Wins: 16
• West Indies Wins: 18
• No Result: 1

Although England has won the last two ODIs in the series, the West Indies have historically been a tough opponent in T20 internationals. Their recent 18 wins in 35 matches against England highlight their competitiveness in the format.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

Wicketkeepers: Jos Buttler (ENG), Shai Hope (WI)
Batsmen: Harry Brook (ENG), Brandon King (WI), Sherfane Rutherford (WI), Ben Duckett (ENG)
Allrounders: Andre Russell (WI), Jason Holder (WI), Will Jacks (ENG), Romario Shepherd (WI)
Bowlers: Adil Rashid (ENG), Alzarri Joseph (WI), Saqib Mahmood (ENG), Gudakesh Motie (WI)

Top Captaincy Picks:

• Captain: Jos Buttler (ENG)
• Vice-Captain: Andre Russell (WI), Shai Hope (WI)

Match Prediction

Despite the West Indies' strong T20I record against England, the hosts are expected to be the favorites in this match, especially with the return of key performers and the backing of home conditions. England's recent ODI series win and their balanced squad give them an edge. However, the inclusion of Jason Holder and Andre Russell could turn the game in the West Indies' favor if the visitors can capitalize on any early wickets.

The toss could prove crucial, with the pitch and weather conditions favoring the chasing side. A close and entertaining match is expected, with both teams eager to open their T20I campaign on a positive note.

Prediction: England to win by 6-8 runs.
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