For both, cricket is back West India and Sri Lanka as the two sides begin World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 campaign battle Sir Vivian Richards Stadium North Sound, Antigua. The hosts have not played a Test match since December 2025, while Sri Lanka return to the longest format in a year. With both teams looking to improve their standings in the WTC era, the series presents an important opportunity to gain valuable points and momentum.
The Caribbean side will rely on experienced names like Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Shai Umid and captain Roston Chase they are looking for their first win of the current WTC cycle. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, comes with a settled 11-man squad Where in Mandy, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis and a pace-heavy bowling attack led by him Lahiru Kumara. Historically, the West Indies have had close contests between these two teams and another competitive battle is expected in Antigua.
Antigua Weather Forecast for Test 1
The five-day forecast for the 1st Test at North Sound suggests hot and humid tropical conditions, with occasional showers possible throughout the match, but no indication of prolonged spells of rain.
- Day 1 (Thursday): Mostly cloudy skies are likely with intermittent rain, a high of 28°C and a low of 27°C. A 30-40% chance of light showers during the day, with an east wind of 18-20 mph (about 30-33 km/h).
- Day 2 (Friday): Similar conditions with showers nearby, a high of 28°C and a low of 27°C. A 30-40% chance of showers during the day, with high humidity, and a light east wind between 16-18 mph (29 km/h).
- Day 3 (Saturday): A high of 27°C and a low of 26°C under partly cloudy skies with a 20-30% chance of rain. East wind around 15 to 17 mph (28 km/h).
- Day 4 (Sunday): Showers are more likely with a high of 28°C and a low of 26°C. 40-50% chance of rain (potentially the wettest day), with an east wind 17-19 mph (30 km/h).
- Day 5 (Monday): If the match is extended, mostly cloudy conditions are expected with highs of 28°C and lows of 27°C, a 20-30% chance of rain and easterly winds of 17-19 mph (31 km/h).
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Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Pitch Report
The surface at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium has traditionally favored the fast bowlers, especially during the first two days of the Test match. The pitch generally offers good carry and seam movement early on, which allows the pacers to get a bounce with the new ball.
Chatters in the early testing phase can enjoy productive periods in the crease as the cap settles. However, patience will be essential as it is rarely easy to create a shot in this space during the first innings. As the match progresses, cracks and rough patches can start to appear, which draws spinners into the contest in the latter stages.
Given the expected weather conditions and venue history, toss-winning captains may be inclined to bowl first and take advantage of any early moisture and cloud cover. Overall, the pitch is expected to provide a balanced contest between bat and ball and the sears are expected to play a major role during the Test.
