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Australia’s 2025 tour of the West Indies has been expanded to include a three-Test series, marking a significant addition to the original schedule. The decision, confirmed by Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley, will rekindle a tradition of longer Test series between the two nations, last seen in the Caribbean in 2012.
First Three-Test Series in Over a Decade
This will be the first time Australia and West Indies face off in a three-Test series since 2015 and the first in the Caribbean since 2012, when Australia secured a 2-0 victory. The series also holds added significance as it will serve as the opening campaign of the next ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where teams are required to play a minimum of two Tests.
Nick Hockley highlighted the importance of the expanded series:
“The World Test Championship prescribes at least two Tests, but for the fans and players, a three-Test series adds more excitement. No one wants to end at 1-1 feeling unsatisfied.”
Reviving a Storied Rivalry
The last encounter between these sides, held in Australia earlier this year, ended in a 1-1 draw. The series was highlighted by a stunning seven-run victory for the West Indies at the Gabba, their first Test win over Australia in 21 years.
The upcoming Caribbean series promises to reignite this rivalry, with matches expected to take place at Barbados, Grenada, and Jamaica. The Tests are slated for late June, followed by three ODIs and three T20Is as part of the tour.
Pushing for Longer Test Series
Hockley, who will step down as CEO in March, has been a strong advocate for longer Test series:
“We’ll keep championing three-Test series as the absolute minimum,” he reiterated earlier this year.
What’s Next for Australia and West Indies?
Before heading to the Caribbean, Australia will focus on securing a spot in this year’s WTC Final, scheduled at Lord’s from June 11-15, 2025.
With this extended Test series in the Caribbean, fans can anticipate another chapter in the rich history of Australia-West Indies cricket, one that promises both tradition and modern-day intensity.
