Former West Indies captain Richie Richardson who has played 86 test matches and 224 one-day internationals scoring 21 centuries in all and 71 fifties has been appointed manager of the West Indies Cricket team with a two-year contract. His job starts immediately as the West Indies prepares for three one-day internationals against Sri Lanka and the World Cup starting in February.
Questionable Bowling
The 15-member squad named by the West Indies for the upcoming World Cup in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh starting February, does not carry the full potential of players with the all-round abilities to counter attack if necessary. It is not a matter of bowling and batting a little.
All rounders must be able to bat and bowl very well when the occasion arises. In the squad named to represent the West Indies, only two players are fully equipped in that capacity and they are Kieron Pollard and former West Indies captain Chris Gayle. No wonder why they are given much attention internationally.
All Rounders
Dwayne Bravo has not proved his all-round abilities with the West Indies. His batting average is below 35 in tests and one-day internationals. His wickets come at a high rate of runs, which is costly to the team. To his credit, he is a splendid fielder. Darren Sammy tries as a medium fast bowler and can be very economical but his batting is in disarray. Andre Russell is yet to play and prove himself in the one-day arena. He may have a tough time getting in the final 11 unless a play is injured. Kemar Roach, Darren Sammy, Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard are sure to be in the final 11 and this would make it difficult for Andre Russell’s selection.
Huge Task
West Indies bowlers will have a huge task in keeping batsmen quiet during the world cup. Darren Sammy and company will have to strategise their bowling with some good planning. In the event that the West Indies bowlers should contain and restrict these batsmen, that should put the West Indies in a comfortable position in gaining success in the tournament. With Ramneresh Sarwan back in the team, the West Indies batting has a great boost.
W.I. World Cup Squad
Darren Sammy (captain), Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo, Darren Bravo, Ramneresh Sarwan, Devon Smith, Kieron Pollard, Ravi Rampaul, Kemar Roach, Adrian Barath, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Nikita Miller, Andre Russel, Carlton Baugh Jr. and Sulieman Benn.
