The decision by the Cricket West Indies (CWI) to appoint Kieron Pollard as captain of the limited overs side following an indifferent World Cup campaign was met with apprehension in some quarters.
Analysts argued that it was a backward step while others, including legend Brian Lara, commended the move and suggested that the 32-year old Trinidadian was the right man for the job.
Despite the criticism, Pollard, against the odds, led the Caribbean side with admiration during a lengthy tour of India where they tested Virat Kohli’s men.
They also showed signs of upward gains against Afghanistan during the preceding series.
The Caribbean men will now turn their attention to Ireland for a three-match ODI series which begins tomorrow in Barbados.
For Pollard and his men, a dominating series win over the Irish will surely reinforce the perception that the limited overs side will be capable of competing against the heavyweights in years to come.
The series presents an opportunity for coach Phil Simmons to further integrate what appears to be a working batting philosophy into the team’s arsenal.
The batting methodology seems obvious and stretched India during the last series where the flamboyance of Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran was tempered by the anchorage of `Mr. Dependable’ Shai Hope and Roston Chase who is now looking to cement a spot in the One Day side.
Pollard’s finishing touch, which was on display during his flashy 74 against India in the decider which his side lost, will also be vital to the success while contributions from Jason Holder and Keemo Paul down at the button would only hurt whichever opposition they play against, Ireland no less.
The bowling department on the other hand, poses a few more headaches for the side. Sheldon Cottrell has been a revelation with his number and flare. He followed up his 12 scalps at the end of the World Cup with nine more wickets against India and Afghanistan during the last quarter of 2019.
Holder, who was rested for the series, hasn’t quite been on the mark while Paul is touted as the man to take on the burden of producing death overs magic. His credentials will be heightened if he is able to embrace his role against Ireland.
The impact of spinners Hayden Walsh Jr., and Khary Pierre, who have both been inconsistent, will be monitored during the series as Windies look to unearth a potent enough spinner to move forward.
Despite the encouraging signs, West Indies will be tested by Andy Balbirnie’s men. Ireland have in their ranks a few match winners in Kevin O’Brien, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirlin and Gary Wilson which will make the series altogether interesting.
The host, nonetheless, holds the physiological advantage heading into the series having won the last three completed matches between the two sides. However, Pollard and his young bunch should be looking to dominate the visitors and not just settle for consolation wins as they look to climb the ICC rankings.
Fixtures
Jan 7: 1st Colonial Medical Insurance ODI – Kensington Oval, Barbados
Jan 9: 2nd Colonial Medical Insurance ODI – Kensington Oval, Barbados
Jan 12: 3rd Colonial Medical Insurance ODI – Grenada National Stadium, Grenada
Jan 15: 1st Sandals Resorts T20I – Grenada National Stadium, Grenada
Jan 18: 2nd Sandals Resorts T20I – Warner Park, St Kitts
Jan 19: 3rd Sandals Resorts T20I – Warner Park, St Kitts.
