COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, CMC – Darren Bravo is hoping to transport his rich vein of form into the World Cup, which opens on February 19 and will be co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
The West Indies batsman is one of eight players in the side playing in their first World Cup, and is looking forward to the experience.
“I want to go out and do my part, and help West Indies to have a great World Cup,” said the left-handed batsman.
“The coach has given me the backing and I have the confidence to go out and perform at that crucial position – batting at three.”
Bravo made his One-day International debut two years ago against India at Kingston. He has played 13 matches, and scored 345 runs at an average of 38.33.
In the final ODI of the series against Sri Lanka, which ended last Sunday, he hit a stroke-filled 79, surpassing his previous career-best of 74.
His main objective for the World Cup is to score heavily, so that West Indies can win matches with the bat.
“This tournament is going to be a big challenge for me, but I am always someone who thinks of the positive,” he said. “A big challenge equals a big opportunity.
“That has been instilled in me from young and I carry that thought with me always. I am adapting to the international level. It is never easy at this level, actually it’s quite tough, but still I’m enjoying it.”
He added: “I want to keep my focus and concentrate on my role in the team and my responsibility to the people of the West Indies. We are gelling really well as a unit and I have the full backing of everyone.”
West Indies have been drawn in Group-B of the World Cup along with co-hosts India and Bangladesh, as well as South Africa, England, Ireland and the Netherlands.
They play the South Africans on February 24 in Dehli in their opening match.
