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The second Test of the ongoing three-match series between West Indies and Australia is set to be held at the National Cricket Stadium in St. George’s, Grenada, starting July 3. Australia, having convincingly won the first Test by 159 runs, will look to seal the series, while the hosts aim to bounce back and level the contest. The game promises several exciting contests within the match, where individual brilliance could turn the tide for either side.
For West Indies, this will be a call to arms for Jaydon Seales, Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph to make use of conditions and attack Australia’s top order early. For Australia, their trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will be eyeing a repeat of the first Test’s success. With both sides fielding potent pace attacks and the pitch offering little relief to batters, the outcome could well be decided in the battle of seam dominance.
National Cricket Stadium pitch report:
The National Cricket Stadium in St. George’s, Grenada, has been an infrequent host for Test matches, having seen just two games since 2015. But despite its limited usage, the ground has left a strong impression on how conditions can heavily favor the bowlers, especially fast bowlers. The last time a Test was played at this venue was in 2022 was between England and West Indies, where West Indies defeated England by 10 wickets, a result few expected against a side as formidable as the Aussies.
That match saw pace bowlers rule the roost, with the surface offering good carry, seam movement, and enough in the air to test batters early on. Seamers got considerable assistance throughout the game, as wickets fell in clusters and batting became a constant struggle. Given how similar weather and pitch preparation trends are expected this time around, it’s highly likely that this second Test will again be defined by how well the pace units from both sides adapt and execute.
Also READ: WI vs AUS: Steve Smith provides crucial update on his availability for the second Test
National Cricket Stadium Test Stats and Records:
- Total matches: 4
- Matches won bowling first: 3
- Average 1st innings scores: 278
- Average 2nd innings scores: 365
- Average 3rd innings scores: 223
- Average 4th innings scores: 129
- Highest total recorded: 470/10 (138.1 Ov) by West Indies vs New Zealand
- Lowest total recorded: 120/10 (64.2 Ov) by England vs West Indies
- Highest individual score: Chris Gayle (204 for West Indies)
- Best bowling figures in an innings: Kemar Coach (6/48 for West Indies)
- Best bowling figures in a match: Shakib al Hasan (8/129 for Bangladesh)
