DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka, CMC – Fast bowler Shakera Selman says hot conditions threatened to derail her impressive spell that helped West Indies beat Sri Lanka in their opening One-Day International here yesterday.
Selman says she dug deep to defy extreme conditions and also had to contend with a flat batting surface but was rewarded with impressive figures of 10-5-8-2 as West Indies won by four wickets at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
However the 23-year old pacer was forced to leave the field at the end of her spell having sustained a cramp as a result of the heat.
“It was very hot, I can’t ever remember playing in conditions so hot…and I had to dig deep to get that kind of performance out there. It was a case of mind over matter,” Selman told WICB Media after the match.
“At the end of my spell I had to come off due to cramp as the heat got the better of me, but I was glad I could do a great job for the team and get us off to a good start in the series”.
Selman used the new ball with telling effect as West Indies limited the home side to 164-9 off their 50 overs.
The World Number 2 team then reached 168-6 off 38 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
“I didn’t have a great tournament in the World Cup so I wanted to make sure I made a contribution on this trip. I didn’t want to let the team down so I made sure I gave it my all despite the tough conditions,” Selman said.
“I’m very happy with my performance. It would have to rank as my best performance in a West Indies shirt. My best figures are 4-11 against Holland on my first tour – a few years back – but the way I bowled today I was really pleased with the effort and the outcome.”
West Indies went into the match without two key players – captain and main wicket-keeper Merissa Aguilleira and experienced left-hander Shanel Daley, who were unwell.
Both are however expected to be available for the next game tomorrow.
The Windies will have a training session this afternoon at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium as they prepare for the upcoming match at the same venue.
