GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – West Indies vice-captain Brendan Nash says he is anxious to rejoin the fray after four months out of international spotlight.
The left-hander was recalled for the two-Test series against Pakistan starting here tomorrow, after being overlooked for the regional side’s limited overs campaign earlier this year.
“I’m feeling mentally and physically ready for the series. I am hitting the ball really well and I’m where I want to be in the lead-up to the Test series,” said the Australia-born batsman who represents Jamaica. “I played in the WICB Regional four-day tournament and I managed to get some good runs. I felt I batted really well. I’m happy to be part of the team unit for the Test series here against Pakistan.”
An unflappable player, Nash will be a vital member of the West Indies batting department in the upcoming series.
He averages 38 from 18 Tests, having already compiled 1049 runs with two centuries, and provides added solidity in the middle order. The 33-year-old was in excellent form during the four-day tournament, amassing 626 runs at an average of 62.
“I’m feeling really good the way I’m batting. The last time I batted in a first-class match I got over 200 [207 for Jamaica against Trinidad and Tobago],” he noted.
“Admittedly, that was a little while ago, but I have carried that form with me. Pakistan have a good team, they have some good bowlers, but I believe I am experienced enough and capable enough to handle myself.
“We have a good team and things are taking shape, so we believe we will do very well against the Pakistanis.”
Nash, who joined the squad in Guyana following the conclusion of the one-day series, said there was a great spirit in the camp ahead of the first Test at the National Stadium at Providence.
“I’m looking to get onto the field. I love Test cricket and I really enjoy playing for the West Indies so I’m happy to be back among the boys again,” he said.
“We have a few new players who I have not had the joy of playing a Test match with, so that’s exciting for me. We have good camaraderie in the team and we are all focused on the two Test matches upcoming.”
