Dear Editor,
Unarguably, the epitome of all cricket events has dawned upon us yet again; it will unfold in the sub-continent in a little more than a day’s time. If you are breathless with anticipation or you frequently experience a surge of adrenalin as I do when cricket is being played, you might view the time in terms of hours just to pacify the nerves.
Understandably, with the World Cup on the horizon, cricket enthusiasts from every section of society have begun to openly show allegiance for teams which they deem may snare the coveted cup. There are noisy debates about squad selection and predictions about possible starting elevens for the opening game of the respective teams. Some are even expressing cautious optimism that the likely victor will emerge from the sub-continent, seemingly oblivious to the fact that the defending champion is very much a contender, although they have taken a few punches in recent times. But, some place in the recesses of our minds, we will remember England’s annihilation at the hands of the Australians in the just concluded one-day series. Nonetheless, these are early days and only time will tell.
My first choice team is undoubtedly the West Indies. As hardened West Indies supporters, there is always a sense of expectation that the team will do well, even if the previous performance was mediocre or the prospects appear bleak. We always look for the pinprick of light at the end of the tunnel. We always hope that the West Indies will spring a surprise, even when the outcome looks inevitably gloomy. Despite this, diehard supporters continue to persevere indefatigably always with the anticipation that we will turn the corner sooner rather than later.
It is very refreshing to hear that Gayle has shown renewed enthusiasm towards the commitment to West Indies cricket. The proclamation that he wants his hands on the World Cup, together with the half century which he scored against Sri Lanka in the warm-up, a team that he has struggled against in the past, is testimony to the fact that he is focused. The effervescent Darren Bravo is relishing every moment on the big stage thus far, and should provide the impetus and stability at the number three spot. However, let us remember that he is still very new to international cricket and should not have to shoulder the burden. Instead he should be encouraged to play with a great deal of liberty.
Despite a wide cross-section of supporters venting their frustration at his prolonged time in exile ostensibly because of fitness issues, the elegant and sublime Sarwan has vindicated the selectors’ decision to include him the World Cup squad by churning out decent scores in the recently concluded one-day series in Sri Lanka and the warm-ups. And with his current form and confidence, he should serve as the fulcrum of the West Indies batting. Also, it seems as though Dwayne Bravo is slowly returning to form with the bat, an encouraging sign since he is expected to play a pivotal role later in the order.
However, the cause for concern is the poor run of form by both Chanderpaul and the ferocious Pollard, despite the fact that the latter is still to realize his potential in the longer version of the game. Although contrasting in every facet of the game, both are equally important cogs in the wheels of the West Indies and I am pretty certain that their slump has put a dent in the game plan. Whether or not they can turn around their form on the big day is left to be seen. Though I am not trivializing Pollard’s importance, but I rather suspect that if the West Indies are to stand any realistic chance of qualifying for the second round, Chanderpaul will have to transform his batting form rapidly. Nevertheless, as callous as it may sound, the unfortunate injury scares to both Adrian Barath and Carlton Baugh could possibly see them exit the big stage. But, it could also mean a welcome and deserved return of the pugnacious Marlon Samuels and an opportunity for the inconsistent Dinesh Ramdin to resurrect his career. But, one can never tell with these unpredictable selectors.
Ultimately, apart from the consistent and fiery Kemar Roach, the ever improving Sulieman Benn and the frugal Gayle, the bowling looks fragile. Bangladesh will be no stroll in the park if we are hoping to nudge the fourth spot to qualify for the second round. So if the West Indies are to qualify for the second round, they will have to play as a unit.
Yours faithfully,
Raul Khan
