Brian Lara: West Indies have to pounce immediately, they cannot last five days

The Windies will begin their defence of the Wisden Trophy at Southampton on Wednesday, facing an England side without captain Joe Root

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West Indies must avoid taking Test matches against England into the fifth day, says legendary batsman Brian Lara.

The Windies will begin their defence of the Wisden Trophy at Southampton on Wednesday, facing an England side without captain Joe Root.

Lara believes his countrymen have the ability to claim a positive result over the course of the three-game campaign, which will head north to Emirates Old Trafford for the second and third Tests, but he is concerned about the tourists lasting the distance.

"They have to hit the road running and stamp their authority on England," he said.

"I don't think they can last five days, so they have to take these games in four days. They have to establish a lead and keep it."

West Indies have a fearsome pace bowling attack, including Shannon Gabriel, Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Chemar Holder and the captain Jason Holder, but their batting is less convincing.

^{West Indies legend Brian Lara}

"They have to be able to pounce immediately," said Lara.

"England are not beaten very easily at home and are overwhelming favourites."

West Indies hold the Wisden Trophy following a 2-1 series victory over England in 2019, but have not won a series on these shores since 1988.

"It's going to be a series that's watched all around the world and everybody is hoping to see a competitive series," said Lara.

"It would mean a lot to all West Indians if they could win.

"If they play good cricket on the first day of the Test series, show they have the mettle to perform against England, that's the key."

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