T20 World Cup 2024: West Indies to find ways to strengthen their bowling unit; loss against England might haunt back.
In the highly anticipated Super Eight match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 between West Indies and England, the home team faced a disappointing defeat that left everyone questioning their bowling combination. West Indies cricket team have long been revered for their formidable batting lineup, showcasing power-hitters and stroke players capable of turning the tide of any match single-handedly. However, amidst the accolades showered on their batters, the team’s bowling combination often finds itself under scrutiny.
As the match unfolded in Gros Islet, it became evident that the lack of a cohesive bowling strategy hindered the West Indies’ ability to contain the formidable England batting lineup. Their bowlers struggled to contain the opposition batters, conceding crucial runs at crucial moments. The lack of wickets and economy rate proved to be detrimental to the team’s chances of clinching a victory.
Read More: T20 World Cup 2024: Statistical Round-up of Group Stage
Wrong team selection hurt West Indies: Orthodox bowlers over Leg breakÂ
The West Indies’ team selection and strategic decisions around their bowling combination came under scrutiny following the defeat. The choice of going with Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie in the Gros Islet, where left-arm orthodox bowlers do not have a good record, made the difference in the outcome of the match. Hosein and Motie together went on for 67 runs without taking any wicket in their 8 overs. With an inconsistent bowling line-up, WI struggled to build pressure on the opposition, allowing England to capitalise on loose deliveries and build formidable partnerships.
The pitch at Gros Islet poses a unique challenge for left arm orthodox bowlers, requiring them to adapt their line and length to make the most of the unpredictable bounce and turn. In the T20I matches played at Gros Islet since 2010, leg break bowlers have had a good record with an average of 22.75 and economy rate of around 7.70. Meanwhile the orthodox bowlers are not much successful as they average 34.20 at an economy rate of 7.75. While in overall T20 matches also, the orthodox have had an average of 34.5 with an economy rate of 7.1 at this venue.
The record clearly supports leg break bowlers in Gros Islet and deciding to go with the left arm bowlers made West Indies bowling look a lot weaker. The bowling strategy employed by the West Indies team ultimately influenced the match’s outcome. Missteps in selection of bowling combinations, highlighted the importance of a well-thought-out approach to counter strong batting units.
Read More: T20 World Cup 2024: WI, NZ, Afghanistan battle it out in ‘Group of Death‘
Obed McCoy was the missing pieceÂ
West Indies had a very good option in the form of Obed McCoy. The home team missed an opportunity by not picking McCoy in the crucial match who could have been proven valuable in these conditions. Obed has shown remarkable skill and promise in his recent performances. The hosts need to bring in more variety in their bowling department in order to win their remaining Super Eight games.
The 2016 T20 World Cup winner’s loss against England highlighted the importance of a strong bowling combination in the fast-paced world of cricket. While West Indies boasts a strong batting lineup that commands respect, the need for a cohesive and effective bowling combination is undeniable.
Read More: West Indies remain firm favourites to lift third World T20 title, despite shaky start
