England v West Indies: Ashes places up for grabs – Joe Root

As has been the case for some time, West Indies are without a number of their established global stars because of a dispute with the West Indies Cricket Board over selection for the national team.

An entire XI of players of the calibre to play Test cricket are not even in the squad, with the likes of Chris Gayle, Marlon Samuels, Dwayne and Darren Bravo, Sunil Narine and Darren Sammy all absent.

Most are back at home playing in the Caribbean Premier League T20 competition.

Pace bowling looks to be their strength in the shape of Kemar Roach, Shannon Gabriel, Alzarri Joseph and captain Jason Holder.

Runs will be a concern, but Roston Chase averages 48 from his first 10 Tests, with three centuries.

“We’re obviously huge underdogs,” said Holder. “England are a very good team and a number of their players are in good form.

“We have guys who are showing that they can compete at this level. We have done well in the warm-ups games and hope that transcends into the Tests.”

Asked what he would consider to be a success, Holder replied: “A series win.”