WI ready for Pakistan challenge in ODIs

Caribbean cricket fans are wondering when their beloved West Indies team will get back to winning ways in a Test, T20 International or One-Day International (ODI) series, following a string of defeats against Australia and now Pakistan.

White ball captain Shai Hope and his troops will have the chance to turn things around as they go into their most recent successful format, ODIs, with the first of three games bowling off today in Trinidad and Tobago against a pumped-up Pakistan side.

Hope has expressed confidence in his team’s preparations and highlighted the positive mood in the camp and the team’s determination to build on recent improvements.

The Barbadian acknowledged the mixed results in different formats but emphasised the optimism within the squad, particularly among the core group of ODI players who have been together for the past two years.

“I think it’s a very positive mood and vibe within the dressing room, especially with some of the recent results we’ve had. The guys are really looking forward to this one. We’ve shown success in our own home conditions, and tomorrow (today) starts another journey, another chance to create history.”

The West Indies skipper praised his batters for their consistency, singling out Sherfane Rutherford, Keacy Carty, and the returning Evin Lewis for their contributions.

VERY CONSISTENT

“We must commend the work the batters have been doing. Rutherford has been very consistent, scoring five or six consecutive 50-plus scores. Carty averages around 50 in all his cricket, and our openers have been giving us solid starts. Our top six is providing the stability we’ve been seeking.”

However, Hope admitted that the bowling department remains a slight concern, though he noted gradual progress.

“Our bowling has been improving, but it’s not an overnight fix. “We’ve identified areas to work on, and the guys are chipping in, understanding what’s required in different situations. If we can bat, bowl, and field well, we’ll be a great team going forward.”

Hope anticipates that Pakistan will be relying heavily on spin, particularly in the middle overs, a phase where West Indies have struggled in the past but have shown recent improvement.

“They’re going to throw a lot of spin at us again, especially in those middle overs. How we handle that, along with their swing threat, will be the deciding factor in this series. We’ve gotten better at negating spin, and, if we get through the power play well and put them under pressure, everything else will fall into place.”

WEST INDIES SQUAD: Shai Hope (captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Johann Layne, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.