Four Rising Stars Who Could Trouble India In Ahmedabad

As India prepares to kick off their home Test season in Ahmedabad, the visiting West Indies side arrives with several fresh faces eager to make their mark. The team’s captain, Roston Chase, faced some unusual questions ahead of the match.

“Could you tell us about what your fast bowlers bring to the table? Can you throw light on your spinner, Kharry Pierre? What will Tagenarine Chanderpaul offer at the top?”

These questions reflect the curiosity surrounding a relatively inexperienced squad on their first major tour of India. Absent from the IPL circuit, these players bring different strengths and will be crucial to the visitors’ hopes of challenging the hosts.

Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze: Batting Prospects to Watch

Carrying forward a famous cricketing legacy, Tagenarine Chanderpaul is the son of legendary batter Shivnarine Chanderpaul. Much like his father, Tagenarine employs a distinctive stance and has shown the ability to grind down opposition attacks.

His selection as an opener after Kraigg Brathwaite’s exit signals the team’s faith in his temperament and technique. Before heading to India, he even trained with his father, who excelled on subcontinental pitches. Another promising talent is Alick Athanaze, the leading run-scorer in the 2018 Under-19 World Cup.

Although he impressed on debut against India in 2023, Athanaze’s consistency has been an issue, managing only four half-centuries in 25 innings. Despite that, the left-hander has shown promise, especially against spin, as seen during his performances against Bangladesh. Facing India’s formidable bowling attack will be a defining moment in his career.

Jomel Warrican and Jayden Seales: Bowling Threats with Potential

On the bowling front, Jomel Warrican will be pivotal to West Indies’ chances. The left-arm spinner was instrumental in their remarkable win over Pakistan in Multan earlier this year, where his ability to generate sharp turn and vary pace earned him the Man of the Series title.

His effectiveness against Asian sides makes him a crucial asset, though he will face the challenge of bowling extended spells on Indian pitches. Jayden Seales, meanwhile, steps into the spotlight due to the absence of key pacers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph. Known for his raw pace and height reminiscent of the West Indies fast bowlers of the 80s and 90s, Seales has the potential to unsettle batters.

As the youngest West Indies pacer to claim a five-wicket haul in a Test innings and boasting an average of 22.32 in 21 matches, he could be a significant factor if conditions support seam movement. With fresh talent and a blend of promise and potential, the West Indies will aim to test India in conditions that have traditionally challenged visiting teams.