Cummins confirms first Test XI in big batting call as Aussies’ Windies spin gamble revealed

Pat Cummins has confirmed his side for the first Test against the West Indies with the Australian skipper opting against playing a second spinner.

Australia will field the same bowling attack that lost to South Africa in the World Test Championship final with Cummins to lead a four-man attack alongside Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon.

It means no call up for Matthew Kuhnemann with the tourists needing to turn to the part-time options of Travis Head and Beau Webster on the spin-friendly pitch in Barbados.

Cummins admitted there was uncertainty surrounding the surface when he addressed the media on the eve of the series opener,.

“We don’t really know what to expect but it feels like the three quicks are better suited for this wicket,” the Aussie skipper said.

“I think it’ll be pretty good wicket with maybe a little bit of spin later on in the game, (but) honestly, I’ve got no idea.”

Cummins, meanwhile, confirmed the Australian batting order with Cameron Green holding onto his spot at No.3 despite failing in both innings against South Africa.

“We always like to not have too many moving parts,” Cummins said.

“We see (Green at three) as a long-term option.

Pat Cummins (L) of Australia and Roston Chase (R) of West Indies pose with the Frank Worrell trophy one day ahead of the 1st test match between West Indies and Australia

“He’s hitting the ball really well; he’s moving really well. He had a Test match where it didn’t go to plan, and he only faced (five) balls.

“The message is not to look into that too much. We’re really happy with where his game is placed and I dare say he’ll get a decent run at number three.”

Josh Inglis, who replaces the injured Steve Smith in the side, will bat at No.4 in the veteran’s absence.

Sam Konstas, meanwhile, will open following Marnus Labuschagne’s axing.

Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

West Indies XI: Kraigg Brathwaite, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Brandon King, Roston Chase (c), Shai Hope (wk), Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales

Tour of the West Indies

First Test: June 25-29, Bridgetown, Barbados (midnight AEST)

Second Test: July 3-7, St George’s, Grenada (midnight AEST)