West Indies captain Roston Chase has delivered a confident message ahead of the second and final Test against Pakistan, stating that his team wants to turn the Caribbean into a fortress where visiting sides struggle to win. The hosts have enjoyed an impressive run at home in recent weeks, registering victories over Sri Lanka and Pakistan, and Chase believes the team is now moving in the right direction after a difficult 2025 campaign.
With the second Test set to begin on August 3 at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, West Indies will be looking to seal the series after securing a commanding 90-run victory in the opening encounter. Another win would also improve their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings and continue their strong home form under Chase’s leadership.
Roston Chase wants West Indies to make home conditions count
Speaking ahead of the second Test, Chase emphasized that West Indies are determined to make life difficult for touring teams by fully utilizing familiar home conditions. The captain said the squad had set clear goals after last year’s disappointing performances and believes they are now beginning to achieve them. Chase also made it clear that building a dominant home record remains one of the team’s biggest objectives.
“We’re exactly where we want to be. We want to level up,” Chase said while reflecting on the team’s recent progress. He added that the players have remained committed to the plans discussed within the group and are focused on executing them once again in the second Test. We want to make home our fortress, where we make it very difficult for teams to come to the Caribbean and beat us,” Chase said.
West Indies have already defeated Sri Lanka by an innings earlier this season before drawing the second Test, and they followed it up with a victory over Pakistan in the series opener. Those results have boosted the confidence within the dressing room as they chase another memorable home success.
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West Indies receive injury boost before second Test
The hosts could also receive a timely boost with Chase expected to contribute with the ball despite carrying a finger injury. The all-rounder did not bowl in the first Test but revealed that his condition has improved significantly after returning to the nets. Chase admitted there is still some discomfort in his injured finger but remains optimistic about bowling during the second Test if required.
His availability would provide West Indies with another spin option alongside Jomel Warrican, especially with conditions at the Queen’s Park Oval expected to offer more assistance to slow bowlers than the surface used for the opening Test. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be eager to respond after another disappointing overseas defeat. The visitors have now suffered eight consecutive away Test losses and could strengthen their spin attack for the series finale with additional options available in their squad.
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