Caribbean players to feature in 2 Best v Best matches in Jamaica

– Permaul, Smith among Guyanese confirmed

After the T20 International series between Pakistan and West Indies, the two teams will play two Test matches at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica starting from August 12.
While Cricket West Indies (CWI) has not shed light on players travelling to Jamaica, Guyana Times Sport was reliably informed that some of the red-ball players are in Jamaica.
In preparation for the Test series, two Best v Best matches will be played. Additionally, it was confirmed that thus far, two Guyanese are encamped. Tucber Park fast bowler Nial Smith and Albion Community Centre Cricket Club spinner Veerasammy Permaul are the two Guyanese in Jamaica. Smith impressed in the last Best v Best series while Permaul, who dominates regional cricket, continues to wait on his opportunities.

Nial Smith and Veerasammy Permaul

CWI lead selector Roger Harper is also on the ground in Jamaica observing the preparations. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and the packed international schedule, the Regional 4-Day tournament has been put on hold. CWI has introduced the Best v Best matches to prepare players in the red-ball format which are played across four days.
West Indies began their Test campaign in 2021 with a 2-0 away win against Bangladesh followed by a drawn 0-0 series against Sri Lanka at home. With expectations high, the West Indies then suffered a heavy 2-0 defeat against South Africa.
During that South Africa series, the West Indies had a poor showing and from the batting perspective, no player surpassed 100 runs in four innings across two Tests. With the upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, the Test players will have to come good. CWI is expected to make announcements shortly as it relates to Test preparation for the Pakistan series.