FIVE AREAS ENGLAND MUST REALLY IMPROVE IN WEST INDIES TEST

BY

DEAN WILSON OPENERS

THIS is the ninth new opening partnership for England in the three years since they were last here and it is a huge problem area. If Zak Crawley and Alex Lees can put an end to consistently poor starts, that will be a huge win for the tour.

They have contrasting styles but they must both find a way to stay in and set the tone for a fragile batting

line-up.

NEW-BALL BOWLERS

CHRIS WOAKES and Craig Overton are likely to take up this job and they have the biggest shoes in world cricket to fill. Expectations must not be for an immediate Branderson replacement, but for signs that they can do a job. Giving Joe Root control and picking up the odd wicket will be fine. Ollie Robinson must get fit for purpose.

BEN FOAKES finally has the chance to make this spot his own and he is more than ready. His glovework is outstanding, which will be important when it comes to taking the sort of chances that Jos Buttler put down and his batting is well suited to the No.7 role. He has had a taste and done well but he could and should be the long-term keeper from here on.

SPIN BOWLING

ENGLAND’S relationship with spin must be repaired and that starts here. It is a vital part of the game and it is time more faith and trust was placed in spinners to play consistently.

Jack Leach needs to start asserting himself, believing that he belongs and setting his own fields.

Take a leaf out of Shane Warne’s book and see the ground as a stage on which to shine. Matt Parkinson too must be picked if Leach is not.

CAPTAINCY WICKET-KEEPER

THE decision-making in Australia was awful. Root has plenty of experience now and it is time he showed that he has learnt from it. His tactical use of bowlers, especially Mark Wood and his spinner, both need a step up. And he needs to be encouraging but firm with his players in the pursuit of excellence. He cannot be everyone’s friend but he can be everyone’s captain.