(CMC) – Seasoned all-rounder Jason Holder said West Indies were facing a “big game” against Ireland in their bid to qualify for the Super 12 of the Twenty20 World Cup today.
The Caribbean side enter the contest at Bellerive Oval as one of four teams in Group B on two points, with only the top two teams advancing to the October 22 to November 13 showpiece.
And after losing their opener to Scotland on Monday but then rebounding with a win against Zimbabwe on Wednesday, Holder said another huge final effort would not be required to ensure West Indies’ place in the main draw.
“I think we still have to wait and see what happens in terms of the two games,” Holder said of today’s final day of qualifying matches.
“Once we win, we can still finish first, depending on what happens in the other game. So it’s hard to put a result on things without letting things transpire.
“We’ve got one solid game to play against Ireland, and that’s what we intend to do. I think we’ve shown a lot of good attributes in the last game, and we brought a very, very good flavour and attitude.
“I think we were so much more clear yesterday (against Zimbabwe) what we’re looking to do, and it showed.”
He continued: “Looking forward to this game against Ireland. I think it’s a big game, and we like big games, so I’m sure the guys are really up for it, and we’re looking forward to winning this game solidly.” A weather forecast showing showers today has also added to the anticipated drama, with teams already keeping an eye on net run rate in case of abandonments or no-results.
As it stands, West Indies lie third on net run rate behind Ireland and Scotland but Holder said winning was the only thing on the minds of the two-time former champions.
“I think if we try to study net run rate and use other peripherals, it becomes a lot more complex,” Holder pointed out.
“We’ve just got to control what we can, and that’s to win cricket games. We win this game, we win our next game, and we’re right in it.
“I think when we look too far ahead sometimes we get caught up with other things around, and we miss sight of the actual task at hand.”
He continued: “I don’t think we had net run rate on our minds last night [against Zimbabwe]. Last night was a really important game, and that was a must-win game for us.
“To cross the line and be on the winning side was the goal, and I’m really proud of the way the guys went about it and happy that we got that win.” West Indies face Ireland at 3 pm (midnight, Eastern Caribbean time).
SQUAD – Nicholas Pooran (captain), Rovman Powell, Yannic Cariah, Johnson Charles, Sheldon Cottrell, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Kyle Mayers, Obed Mccoy, Raymon Reifer, Odean Smith, Shamarh Brooks
