ICC World Cup 2019 | I just think that they should put some respect on my name, says Andre Russell

In their opening game of the tournament, West Indies completely dismantled Pakistan to a paltry total of 105, a score the Caribbean nation managed to chase down inside 14 overs. Crucial to the victory was Andre Russell’s contribution, whose spell was claimed by Pakistan captain to be the turning point of the match.

The 31 year old battered the Pakistan batsmen with a barrage of quick, lethal bouncers in a three-over spell that saw him picking up two quick wickets and turning the tide in the favour of the West Indies. It was a statement making show by him, as the world took notice of what he is capable of with the ball as well apart from being a world class batsman. No wonder Russell was not happy with his status as a medium pacer, even though he constantly bowls at speeds of 140+.

"A lot of people will say I come into the team as a big hitter. But they do not remember that I'm a fast bowler. They underestimate me. I've been getting jealous in the past couple of years. People are seeing me as a medium-pacer,” said Russell.

"When my name comes up on the big screen, it says that I'm a medium pace. I'm like who are you talking to? I showed them that can bowl (at) 90 (kmph) I just think that they should put some respect on my name where you know, medium pace should go to fast. I’ll tell you I'm annoyed. So, whoever is responsible for these stats, should change that medium thing to fast,” he added. 

Russell though stated he knew why the world considered him so and explained how a pace bowler like him functions when the conditions do not suit him always. 

“Because at the end of the day when I just started playing, I was bowling 80-85 miles an hour Now I'm stronger, bowling faster. I'm more consistent. You know, sometimes, when it's a slower wicket, you just have to ease into it. Take your time. You can't fight the pitches,” he said. 

“But whenever you see a wicket like this, as a fast bowler you are licking your lips. I remember when I came off the field, one of my teammates asked me how was I feeling after I bowled six short balls in the over. I said to him, ‘Feeling tired, but I know I only have three overs. So, once I leave everything on that park for those three overs, go and cool down and come back for another three overs again.,” he added, referring to his experience of bowling at the Trent Bridge.