The Sri Lanka v West Indies Test series kicks off with an opener at Galle on Monday. It has become somewhat obvious that international teams are not giving Test cricket much importance before the World Cup.

Teams tend to leave players out for rest and experimenting to shape up their World Cup squads. It is very understandable though. Apart from Ashes, even the fans in World Cricket have shifted their focus from T20 and Tests to One day format.

Sri Lanka would enter the series as firm favorites. Fresh from trashing the Aussies, they would feel they can tackle down a depleted West Indian opposition. Sri Lanka have a good blend of batsman with fast and spin bowling.

Sri Lanka have apparently rested veteran Lasith Malinga and have included two uncapped players Suranga Lakmal and back up wicketkeeper Kaushal Silva. The team will be banking on a very vigilant spin attack consisting of Ajantha Mendis, Suraj Randiv and Rangana Herath. The conditions at Galle on 15th November would probably assist spin more than fast bowling. Sri Lanka do not have any serious batting woes their key players Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Thilan Samaraweera and others are in good form and would hope to put West Indies bowling to Test.

Sri Lanka have won one of their last five Test matches

West Indies team might be embarking on a new beginning. There have being significant shake ups which logically seem correct. Chris Gayle has been removed from captaincy who will be replaced by Darren Sammy. Brendon Nash will be his deputy.

West Indies have left out several "key" players such as Denesh Ramdin, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Jerome Taylor and have called wicketkeeper Carlton Baugh and Devon Smith back while calling up the uncapped Andre Russell. Adrian Barath also returns after an injury layoff. The team is looking good on paper and it seems that the administration is looking to carve out future stars.

The team looks good in spirits as well ahead of first Test in Galle on Friday. Former captain Chris Gayle said the team would play united under Sammy. Kemar Roach says he is looking ahead of adjusting and delivering in Sri Lanka, he would be the premier attack bowler in this inexperienced side. Sulieman Benn, the country top spinner will have to play a key role in tough Sri Lankan climate.

West Indies may not have the stars in their side but they certainly reflect a small percentile of spirit and hunger of 70s and 80s to excel.

West Indies have won not won any of their last five Tests.

Tag :- Chris Gayle   Kumar Sangakkara   Lasith Malinga   Sri Lanka   Sulieman Benn   West Indies