Riding high after demolishing Pakistan in their last encounter, an unpredictable West Indies eye another big win against perceived minnows Zimbabwe in their third pool B match of the cricket World Cup, here on Tuesday.
After a rather stunning loss to Ireland in their lung-opener, West Indies bounced back strongly to get the better of Pakistan and are currently placed second behind India in the points table. Zimbabwe have also endured a similar rollercoaster, losing to South Africa, although they did have their moments in the match, before getting the better of UAE to be placed fourth on the table.
“On the day we have to turn up. It doesn’t matter which team we play against, we’re going to have to play our A game. It’s all good cricket from now on. It's the momentum, and once we keep doing what we can do, I think we’re going to go all the way,” said all-rounder Andre Russell ahead of the clash.
For the West Indies, the biggest worry is the rather ordinary run of the usually swashbuckling Chris Gayle but he is expected to hit form against the lower-ranked attack. But Zimbabwe captain Elton Chigumbura is confident that his side has the wherewithal to upstage the Caribbeans. “We need to take this momentum into the game against the West Indies. Hopefully we can polish up our fielding and have a good game in all departments,” said Zimbabwe skipper.
Bravo ruled out West Indies batsman Darren Bravo has been officially ruled out of Tuesday’s World Cup clash against Zimbabwe at Manuka Oval. “Windies confirm Darren Bravo to miss match vs Zimbabwe on Tuesday. The team remains hopeful he might be fit to face SA in Sydney on Friday,” the team announced on its Twitter feed on Monday.
Bravo suffered a left hamstring injury in Saturday's 150-run win over Pakistan in Christchurch. He made 49 before he was forced to retire hurt. The 26-year-old Trinidadian had also been left dazed when a powerful throw from Younis Khan hit him on the side of the helmet as he scrambled through for a single. To complete his miserable day, he was later reprimanded by the International Cricket Council for swearing. West Indies have two points from two games in Pool B after their win over Pakistan followed a shock opening loss to Ireland.