World Cup previews…Giant killers Ireland loom as stumbling block for Windies

Ireland’s World Cup hopes lie in the hands of key player Kevin O’Brien above

As the highly anticipated 2015 Cricket World Cup (CWC) looms, keen attention will be paid on the performance of the pride and joy of the Caribbean, former two-time Cup winners, West Indies.

The Windies have so far endured a lean patch ahead of the grandest stage in cricket both on and off the field with issues ranging from young Jason Holder’s appointment to the One-day Captaincy mere months away from the tournament, Sunil Narine’ withdrawal due to his suspect bowling action, the overlooking of key all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) selectors and the recent 4-1 thumping dished out by AB DeVilliers and his men during the South African series.

The above does not inspire confidence ahead of the Wes Indies opening match against the uncanny Ireland.

The recent strings of negativity ahead of a tournament of