ICC World Cup 2019 | West Indies’ predicted XI for the game against Pakistan at Trent Bridge
The surprise package of the tournament, West Indies will fancy their chances on the batting-friendly surface of Trent Bridge against Pakistan. With the return of few experienced players, Windies are the side to watch out for and have a well-oiled side, which is a combination of experience and youth.
Openers
Chris Gayle: The Universe Boss needs no introduction. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Chris Gayle has rekindled memories of his prime in recent times with belligerent stroke-play and power-hitting at the top. Gayle should pose a serious threat at Trent Bridge and a lot of Windies hopes will rely on his success.
Evin Lewis: While most of the talks have been regarding Gayle and Russell’s return, Evin Lewis has been the silent assassin and did well in the warm-up games, scoring half-centuries against Australia and New Zealand.
Middle-order
Shai Hope: He has scaled newer heights in ODI cricket and has churned out runs at an impeccable consistency. Just 54-ODI-old, Hope has already crossed the 2000-run mark and boasts of a staggering average of 51.05. The hundred against New Zealand in the warm-up must have only added fire to his blazing confidence and is all set to stamp his authority on the grandest stage of ODI cricket.
Darren Bravo: The southpaw may not have impressive numbers to his backing, but has the temperament and game to anchor the innings and set a platform for the explosive batting that follows. With the kind of firepower Windies have, Bravo could be an apt man to rebuild things in case of a storm.
Shimron Hetmyer: Players like him have helped Windies earn the tag of unpredictable and can run through any opposition on their day. Hetmyer has proved his worth in 25 ODIs played so far, but the World Cup will pose the challenge of a different kind.
Andre Russell: He may have only played just two ODIs since 2015 World Cup, but his blistering form propelled his selection in the World Cup squad. He wreaked havoc in the IPL, where bowlers looked scared to bowl to him and should inflict massive damage in this tournament as well. Not just with the bat, he is more than handy with the ball and should stabilise things in the middle.
Jason Holder: The skipper has led the side with example in recent times and has fulfilled the role of an all-rounder quite effectively. Holder has played a crucial role in rebuilding the Windies side and this tournament would be a perfect platform for them to stamp their authority and re-establish their dominance to an extent.
Ashley Nurse: With the Windies not having much of a spin option at their disposal, Nurse will get a nod without any doubt and has a lot to prove. He is handy with the bat though, his bowling will be tested against the formidable batting of Pakistan.
Shannon Gabriel: It was a difficult pick to make between Gabriel and Sheldon Cottrell, but the former’s recent form should get him a nod. With him in the attack, the Windies don’t really have a weak link in their bowling attack.
Kemar Roach: His frightening bowling and ability to make a batting attack look like sitting ducks is what stands Roach apart. On his day, he can run through the opponent single-handedly and the Windies would be hoping Roach to spring such performance in their opening game against Pakistan.
Oshane Thomas: He brims of raw pace and his intimidating body language can send shivers down the opponent’s spine. He has the ability to pick wickets and keep things in check with the new ball coming fresh from a good run in the series against England.
0
0
0
0
0
0
Comments
Sign up or log in to your account to leave comments and reactions
0 Comments