DHAKA, Bangladesh, CMC – West Indies coach Ottis Gibson says there is renewed self belief in the Caribbean side, following their convincing win in the opening One-Day International here Thursday.
West Indies beat Bangladesh by 40 runs to rebound from the heartbreaking loss in the one-off Twenty20 International on Tuesday.
“This tour of Bangladesh is a tough series and we are gearing ourselves up for it, strengthening our team and making sure everyone is in top form,” Gibson said yesterday.
“The mood in the camp is very good at the moment. Obviously we are a bit disappointed at losing the T20 but yesterday we came out and played and our focus came through – and it has given us a lot of confidence.
“Marlon Samuels was in great form and Lendl Simmons hit his first century. Overall the guys stuck with the plan they had – and the results speak for themselves.”
West Indies won the opening tour matches, taking the 45-over per side match by 65 runs and the subsequent T20 game by 75 runs.
With a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Gibson said his side were now eyeing the crucial series win, with the second ODI scheduled for today.
“Things are going well so far – we’ve started this series positively and the boys are even talking more about believing they can win – about what they need to do to win this series,” Gibson pointed out.
“Yesterday’s win has put the opposition under pressure and a couple of more wins will see us win this series – something we haven’t done in a while – so we’re looking forward to it.
“Morale is very high and now going forward our consistency is a big focus. We have the confidence so now we need to maintain momentum and deliver consistently.”