CaribWorldNews, BRISBANE, Australia, Weds. Nov. 25, 2009: The West Indies Cricket squad is set to face the boys from down under in their first test match of the season.

The Windies are set to be rejoined by Skipper Chris Gayle for the Nov. 26-30th first test at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Gayle left the tour last Wednesday to be with his mother, who was hospitalized in Jamaica. The first test bowls off on Thursday at 10 am (8 pm on Wednesday Eastern Caribbean Time/7 pm Jamaica time).

West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor has said he is fit, ready and able to lead the bowling attack. The 25-year-old was speaking after the West Indies had a full three-hour net session on Monday at the Gabba and insisted that the Windies are carefully planning strategy to reap success in the upcoming three tests even as critics question whether the team can gel cohesively after missing team playing time amidst a contract dispute.

But looking at the pitch and the lush green outfield, Taylor noted: “I can`t wait to get out there and bowl. As a fast bowler, that`s my thing ... that`s my job and I want to get into action. If there is any life in the pitch it is a plus for us because back home in the Caribbean we are accustomed to very flat and low wickets.”

West Indies coach Dave Williams, also said he is convinced that the harmony and camaraderie in the West Indies camp could be a driving force as they seek to topple Australia in the upcoming three-match Test Series.

The second Test will be played at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide on December 4-8; and the third Test will be played at the WACA Ground in Perth on December 16-20. The two teams will be competing for the Frank Worrell Trophy.