West Indies coach Phil Simmons says his fast bowlers will target England’s batting youngsters as the tourists look to win their first Test series in this country since 1988.
England’s top six is likely to include the 24-year-old Dom Sibley, who has played only six Tests, and the 22-year-old Ollie Pope, who has played seven. Waiting in the wings is Zak Crawley, 22, who has four caps. Even their most experienced opener, Rory Burns, 29, has made only 15 appearances.
And with West Indies ready to unleash their battery of pace bowlers during the first Test at Southampton’s Ageas Bowl on July 8, the message is clear: even in front of empty stadiums, the pressure will be on.