Australian batter Travis Head believes his side is well-prepared for all possible challenges as they gear up for a three-match Test series against the West Indies in the Caribbean. Speaking ahead of the opening Test in Barbados, Head shared confidence in Australia’s adaptability and readiness despite a few big changes in the squad.
Australia will be without Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne for the series opener. Smith is recovering from a finger injury sustained during the World Test Championship Final against South Africa and is expected to return for the second match. Labuschagne has been dropped due to poor form, with young batter Sam Konstas and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis stepping in as replacements.
“I think we’re prepared for anything, really, and prepared for maybe both [seam and spin] in the same game,” Head told ESPNcricinfo. “As a batter, you’re just sort of planning for anything at the moment. Once you get a look at the lay of the land, you come up with a plan and try to cover all bases.”
This series marks Australia’s first Test tour to the West Indies since 2015–16, with their most recent visits being for limited-overs cricket, including the 2021 ODI series and the 2024 T20 World Cup. Reflecting on the pitch conditions, Head added, “They spun a little bit here. They were pretty slow, but I’ve heard different things, especially with the Dukes and what that brings.”
Head also noted the unfamiliarity of the current setup, with Australia set to play a Test without either Smith or Labuschagne for the first time since 2018. Despite this, he expressed confidence in the group. “When we get into the game, it’ll be a little bit new looking. But there are some guys who’ve been part of the group for a long time, so it shouldn’t feel too much different,” he said.
On Josh Inglis, Head had high praise, calling him a versatile and adaptable player who is finally getting a chance to prove himself. “He can cover so many bases. It feels like he’s played a lot more than he has for Australia. Once he gets his extended stay in the team, I think he’ll excel. He’s already shown great application in Sri Lanka and some tough roles as well.”
Looking back at Australia’s recent defeat in the WTC Final against South Africa, Head acknowledged the disappointment but stressed the importance of looking ahead. “It’s unfortunate we put two years of hard work into one week and it didn’t go to plan. But fair play to South Africa. We’ve got two more years to build and this is a first look at that. You can’t change the past. You have to move on and get back on the horse,” he concluded.