Heartened by a series-levelling victory against New Zealand in the second Test, West Indies coach Ottis Gibson and experienced opener Chris Gayle are hoping that the regional side will replicate that performance in the deciding third cricket Test starting at?Kensington Oval today.
“I think the Test cricket that we played in Trinidad, that is the sort of Test cricket that we want to play,” declared head coach Ottis Gibson.
“Obviously, the opposition is not going to allow you to play that sort of cricket all the time but that’s the cricket we want to play and that’s what we will set out to do.”
Gayle, who hammered a match-winning unbeaten 80 off just 46 balls on the last day of the second Test at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, says he is looking forward to batting at Kensington Oval.
“We’ve got to be positive. The start is going to be important for us as opening batsmen. Once we get the start and use home advantage to the best, we will see what happens,” said Gayle.
“Kensington is beautiful . . . good wicket to bat on. It’s a fantastic ground. I love playing here. And you get quality for your shots as well, so it’s something I am looking forward to.”
With Kemar Roach and Jerome Taylor leading the line-up, the West Indies bowling looks threatening on a pitch that promises to be seamer-friendly.
“Kensington always has a little bit in it for the bowlers as well. New Zealand will not mind that either,” Gibson said.
The Test could result in a milestone for the resurgent Taylor, who is eight short of 100 Test wickets.
Gayle said he was very impressed with opening partner Kraigg Brathwaite, who scored his maiden Test hundred in the second Test.
“Being on the bench and for a young player to actually come in playing his first game for the series to be able to get a hundred that’s fantastic,” Gayle said.
“That’s a bright future for West Indies cricket. So hopefully he can actually carry on here on his home turf and get another century in front of his hometown.” (CMC/EZS)
