The first Test between West Indies and Australia for the Frank Worrell Trophy 2025 will be played from June 25 to 29 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. The match will begin at 10am local time, which is 12am AEST starting June 26 for Australian viewers.
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Match: West Indies vs Australia, 1st Test (Frank Worrell Trophy)
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Dates: June 25-29, 2025 (local) | June 26-30, 12am AEST
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Venue: Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados
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Live Broadcast: ESPN (via Disney+, Foxtel, Kayo Sports, Fetch TV), ABC & SEN Radio
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Streaming & Highlights: cricket.com.au, CA Live app, Unplayable Podcast
Series Overview
Australia begin their 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) campaign with a historic three-Test tour of the West Indies, starting in Bridgetown. This is their first red-ball series in the Caribbean in a decade. Both teams are seeking strong starts to their WTC journeys. The Frank Worrell Trophy, one of the oldest and most respected prizes in Test cricket, is on the line once again. Australia have held the trophy since 1995 and remain unbeaten in their last 13 series against the West Indies.
Team Previews
West Indies
A new era begins for the hosts as Roston Chase steps in as Test captain, replacing Kraigg Brathwaite. It’s a bold move given Chase hasn’t played red-ball cricket in over two years. The squad features a mix of experience and fresh faces, including uncapped players like Kevlon Anderson and returnees such as John Campbell and Brandon King. Wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope could also make his red-ball comeback, replacing Joshua Da Silva.
Head coach Daren Sammy will be overseeing his first Test series in charge. The Windies’ last WTC cycle was difficult, but they did sign off with a famous win against Pakistan and an iconic victory against Australia at the Gabba, thanks to Shamar Joseph’s heroics.
Australia
Australia are the reigning WTC runners-up, but start a new cycle with a few key changes. Star batter Steve Smith is ruled out of the first Test due to a finger injury, and Marnus Labuschagne has been dropped. This paves the way for teenager Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis to come into the squad.
Pat Cummins continues as captain, leading a balanced side with depth in both spin and pace departments. Sean Abbott replaces Brendan Doggett due to injury, while Matt Kuhnemann joins Nathan Lyon as spin options on potentially dry Caribbean tracks.
Probable Playing XIs
West Indies XI (Probable):
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Kraigg Brathwaite
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John Campbell
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Keacy Carty
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Roston Chase (c)
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Brandon King
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Shai Hope (wk)
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Justin Greaves
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Alzarri Joseph
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Shamar Joseph
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Jayden Seales
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Jomel Warrican
Australia XI (Probable):
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Usman Khawaja
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Sam Konstas
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Josh Inglis
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Travis Head
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Cameron Green
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Alex Carey (wk)
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Pat Cummins (c)
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Mitchell Starc
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Nathan Lyon
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Josh Hazlewood
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Scott Boland / Matt Kuhnemann (if two spinners picked)
Pitch and Conditions
Kensington Oval is known for its variable behaviour. Early assistance for seamers with the new ball fades into dry and abrasive conditions as the game progresses, offering turn for spinners. Overhead conditions and the use of Dukes balls may aid fast bowlers, but patience and control will be vital for both sides. Expect an even contest between bat and ball.
Key Players to Watch
Shamar Joseph (WI):
The rising pace sensation who dismantled Australia at the Gabba earlier this year. He has 29 wickets since debut and could be the Windies’ X-factor.
Shai Hope (WI):
Returning to the Test side, Hope’s calm temperament and recent white-ball form could bolster West Indies’ fragile middle order.
Nathan Lyon (AUS):
The veteran spinner is just 11 wickets away from surpassing Glenn McGrath. Expect him to play a key role on wearing pitches.
Pat Cummins (AUS):
Australia’s talismanic captain has taken 29 wickets in his last five Tests. His leadership and rhythm with the ball will be central to Australia’s chances.
Head to Head Record
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Overall Tests: Australia 61 wins, West Indies 33 wins, 25 drawn, 1 tied
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In West Indies since 2010: Australia 4 wins, West Indies 0 wins, 1 draw
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At Kensington Oval: 4 wins each, 3 draws
Scenarios & Match Prediction
Australia will begin as favourites, given their dominant recent form and superior head-to-head record. However, the Windies are at home, refreshed with new leadership and boasting a few match-winners. If the pitch offers significant turn or inconsistent bounce, West Indies could compete strongly, especially if Shamar Joseph and spinners deliver early breakthroughs.
Prediction:
Australia to win – their depth in pace and spin, coupled with their experience in challenging conditions, gives them the edge. But don’t write off a spirited West Indies performance if their top order finds form and the bowling unit clicks.