The CG Insurance T20 series between West Indies and Australia got off to a spectacular start on July 9. Batting first after being sent in, the Men In Maroon seemed short of runs.
When Australia powered their way to a required run rate of under 5 runs an over, with wickets remaining, Windies fans watching on TV probably changed the channel. Some may even have left the ground. If they did, they missed a show of skill, energy and determination.
Playing in his first T20 for some time, spinner Hayden Walsh Jr produced his best bowling figures of 3-23 from his 4 overs.
Speaking to Cricket West Indies Media after the victory, Walsh Jr said that after his first couple of overs, he felt like the Aussies would have difficulty playing him. Those fans who were questionning his exclusion from the series against Australia, were no doubt delighted with this performance. Walsh Jr said “I’m just very pleased that I came back and I used my first opportunity to do well.”
The other masterful bowling performance came from Obed McCoy. After being punished for 17 over in his first over, the left arm bowler came back with more control and variation, to end with figures of 4-26. He was named Player of the Match.
McCoy said “It feels great. I’ve been working really hard. It was just all about execution and sticking to the team plan. Normally on that surface the ball has nice bounce and carry but I was just trying to mix up my pace as much as I can. I noticed the spinners were getting a bit of turn so I thought my slower balls would grip. We were confident and knew we had the bowling to back it and just knew we had to go out and fight hard.”
For the match details, visit the CWI website. The teams have little time to rest, as the second T20 is scheduled for Saturday July at the same venue.