WI vs IND | We are preparing for T20 World Cup, but need to start winning some matches first, says Kieron Pollard
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Kieron Pollard has called on the two-time – and defending – T20 champions to win the matches in front of them in the coming series if they are to mount a serious preparation for the T20 World Cup next year. The Windies were clean swept by the Indian team in the recently concluded series.
Pollard has been one of the T20 giants over the last decade. So has his team. However, their recent performances on-field resemble that of a minnow. The Men in Blue seemed to have won the series 3-0 without even having to break a sweat. Pollard has called on his side to wake up from the slumber and start winnings some matches.
"To be honest, we are preparing for the 2020 World Cup. For me personally, we have to deal with what is in front of us at a time. We have to win some matches from here in the coming series," Pollard told ANI at the post-match press conference, reported Times Now.
In recent times, the Windies have been repeatedly accused of being poor rotators of strike. They are clean big-hitters no doubt, but the raking up of successive dot balls builds pressure that often induces errors. Although he admits the same, Pollard says that is important for the boys to stick to their strengths.
"Yes, we look at that as one of the areas we need to work on and I totally agree on it. When you look at the boundary count in terms of our team and other teams we are way ahead. So, sometimes we play with our strengths and do what you are strong at and try to work on your weakness. It was a consolidated effort today," he added.Â
Personally, things are fairly steady for Pollard. He has posted scores of 49, 8 (not out) and 58 in the series. However, 32-year-old isn’t too enthusiastic as his efforts couldn’t help his team over the line in any of the matches.
"I went and tried my best, but my best was not good enough to help the team to get over the line. I think it is right enough, you always want to come and try to give your best, every time you step on the cricket field," Pollard said.
Before concluding, Pollard was asked whether he fancied the role of captain. In his stern reply, he noted that he is happy to give his all, which includes sharing his experiences.Â
"I am a player and I think you are asking this to the wrong person. I come on the cricket field to give my 100 percent and to share my experience with the younger guys in the dressing room," Pollard concluded.
The hosts will now face India in the first ODI at Providence Stadium in Guyana on August 8.Â
