The first of three Tests begins at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday and Simmons says that being mentally prepared is the biggest task in hand ahead of the matches.
West Indies had a forgettable start against England in 2017, when the hosts won the first Test by 209 runs inside three days. However, West Indies won the second Test at Headingley by successfully chasing down 322, and want to draw inspiration from that game this time around.
West Indies batters are where they need to be mentally, says Simmons
West Indies have an impressive bowling attack but their batting line-up is comparatively lacklustre. However, Simmons feels that Shai Hope, who has scored back-to-back hundreds in England, can be an example for others in terms of toughening up mentally.
“(Shai) Hope has got back-to-back hundreds here. It’s about getting to the mental stage where you are prepared for a Test match in England, because it’s different to many other places. The next three days of practice is about sharpening up the skills. But mentality is the big thing, Simmons added.”
This will be the first international series where cricket’s new laws pertaining to COVID-19 will be seen. Ban of saliva to keep the ball shining and no celebrations which will flout social distancing rules will be some of the intriguing aspects on show.
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