West Indies vs Australia Prediction: Australia are the defending champions

West Indies and Australia are going head to head in Match 12 of ICC World Cup T20 Warmup at Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago on 31st May 2024. Australia are the defending champions of the T20 World Cup. Who will win this game of cricket?

Rovman Powell will captain West Indies in the upcoming T20 World Cup, with Brandon King and Jonathan Charles likely to open the batting. Shai Hope is also in contention for the opening slot. With the players back from IPL the West Indies team looks strong against. They have a strong middle order which can obliterate the opposition bowlers on any day. Newcomer Shamar Joseph is expected to handle the pace bowling duties, while Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hossain will lead the spin attack. Roston Chase can provide spin bowling all-rounder options if required. The team balances experience and youth in their bowling unit. Key players to watch are Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, and Nicholas Pooran.

Rovman Powell, Brandon King, John Charles, Nicholas Pooran, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Akeal Hossain, Shai Hope, Sherfane Rutherford

Australia has faced significant challenges in this practice game as only nine players are available from their squad. Captain Mitchell Marsh will be playing as a batsman in this match due to fitness issues. The opening pair will consist of David Warner and Josh Inglis, with Mitchell Marsh, Tim David, and Matthew Wade expected to play crucial roles in the middle order. Travelling reserves Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short will also be taking part in the match. In the pace department, Josh Hazlewood will team up with Nathan Ellis as Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins are yet to join the squad. Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa will be the main spinners, with the possibility of Matthew Short filling in as the third spinner. Key players to watch out for are Mitchell Marsh, Adam Zampa, and Tim David.

David Warner, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Adam Zampa, Tim David, Mathew Wade, JF McGurk, Mathew Short, Ashton Agar, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis

Both teams are not solely focused on winning at any cost; instead, they aim to achieve the right balance and depth in their combinations. West Indies will utilize their home advantage to address any weaknesses in their playing XI. Meanwhile, Australia is dealing with player availability issues and will aim to adapt to the playing conditions. Despite the challenges, it is predicted that West Indies will emerge victorious in the match.