WORMSLEY, England, CMC – Having failed to impress so far in his fledgling international career, all-rounder Kieron Pollard is eyeing the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 Championships as the opportunity to make his mark.
The powerfully built 22-year-old gained a reputation as an explosive hitter in the West Indies domestic tournaments but has been a disappointment since making his international debut two years ago.
A highest score of 42 in 15 One-Day Internationals and a best of 38 in four T20 Internationals has left the belligerent all-rounder with unflattering statistics.
“I have not really done anything spectacular on the world stage so far, so this tournament could be an opportunity to me to step up and make a name for myself,” Pollard said Saturday, after helping West Indies win their second unofficial warm-up match against Ireland.
“This could be the start of it. It is a matter of going out there and doing my best for West Indies cricket.”
Playing at the John Paul Getty Ground, Pollard was not spectacular but grabbed two for 26 to help restrict Ireland to 118 all out and then chipped in with 18 from 12 balls as the Windies reached their target to win by five wickets with 13 balls to spare.
Despite his below par performances, Pollard said he believed he still had a role to play in West Indies colours, both with the bat and ball.
“I see myself as being an asset to the team especially if I have to come in late in the innings when the team requires me to get on with the game,” Pollard explained.
“It is matter of me being confident and believing in myself and doing the job that I’m asked to do.
“I am feeling pretty well at the moment and I’m happy with the way I’m batting. My bowling is also going well. I try to take the pace off and always aim to stay one step ahead of the opposing batsmen.”
