England’s ‘red ball reset’ starts here in Antigua on Tuesday with the first of three hugely important Test matches for Joe Root’s side.
After a miserable 2021 that hit rock bottom with their 4-0 thrashing in the Ashes Down Under, Root can consider himself lucky to be leading the new era with some fresh faces aiming to cement their places for the long term.
But even for the senior players there are big improvements to be made across the board with decent scoreboard totals the biggest challenge and an absolute must for the team to become more competitive.
England always come to the Caribbean with hope and expectation of success, but have enjoyed that just once in the last 54 years! Can it be different this time?
Dean Wilson looks at five areas that they need to improve on if England are to taste a rare series victory.
1. Openers
This is the ninth new opening partnership for England in the three years since they were last here and it is a huge problem area.
If Crawley and Lees can put an end to consistently poor starts that will be a huge win for the tour.
They have contrasting styles, but they must both find a way to stay in and set the tone for a fragile batting lineup.
2. New ball bowlers
Chris Woakes and Craig Overton are likely to take up this job and they have the biggest shoes in world cricket to fill.
Expectations must not be for an immediate Branderson replacement, but for signs that they can do a job. Giving Root control and picking up the odd wicket will be fine.
Ollie Robinson must get fit for purpose.
3. Wicket-keeper
Ben Foakes finally has the chance to make this spot his own and he is more than ready.
His glovework is outstanding which will be important when it comes to taking the sort of chances that Jos Buttler put down, and his batting is well suited to an orthodox No.7 role.
He has had a taste and done well, but he could and should be the long term keeper from here.
4. Spin
England’s relationship with spin must be repaired and that starts here.
It is a vital part of the game and it is time more faith and trust was placed in spinners to play consistently.
Jack Leach needs to start asserting himself, believing that he belongs, and setting his own fields. Take a leaf out of Shane Warne’s book and see the ground as a stage on which to shine. Matt Parkinson too must be picked if Leach isn’t.
5. Captaincy
The decision-making in Australia was awful. Root has plenty of experience now, and it is time he showed that he has learnt from it.
His tactical use of bowlers, especially Mark Wood and his spinner both need a step up. And he needs to be encouraging but firm with his players in the pursuit of excellence.
He can’t be everyone’s friend, but he can be everyone’s captain.
