Well, it is obvious for any team to gain advantage and in addition gain courage and excitement from that victory to put up a better performance in the days to come. This need not be the case for a team that gets defeated though there goes the saying that "better luck next time" or "losing is the stepping stone for success" for, a defeat takes away the courage most of the times. This is if you have a winning habit and losing really pisses you off. But, neither are the cases with the West Indies. Neither are the West Indies bothered about their losing streak nor about their rankings.
I remember the then West Indies early last year citing a 4-1 win against Australia in the Commonwealth Bank series 2010 at Australia. But, that series didn't even turn out to be 1-4 as far as the West Indies were considered. West Indies lost the series 4-0 to Australia with one match getting blown out due to bad weather. May be no one would have taken Chris Gayle's words so seriously but, a little bit of sense in talking becomes mandatory when things go public and considering one's caliber. Everyone knew the caliber of the West Indies which has only deteriorated since then.
Now that West Indies have won the first test against Pakistan rather unexpectedly by 40 runs, no doubt all their eyes will definitely be on the second test match starting today at Basseterre which the West Indies hardly have a chance looking at their standard. But still, having hopes shouldn't be a problem no matter what. It needs a thorough search through the Internet to see when last did the West Indies win a test match let alone a test series barring the Providence test last week against Pakistan. Of course, they have never met India since 2006 which reduced their burden a little bit.
However, they are bound to meet India later next month for a bilateral series where once again they are termed underdogs. Now, their concern if the West Indies captain-Darren Sammy is to be believed is their rankings which have since the past 8 years or so have been just two behind the bottom. With Zimbabwe losing its test status in 2005, now the West Indies are just behind Bangladesh in the latest ICC test rankings. This has to be the area of concern for the team who once upon a time dominated world cricket. Beating Pakistan this time as well and India in the forthcoming tour can be a possibility with West Indies facing them at home. But..
Showing posts with label Pakistan vs West Indies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pakistan vs West Indies. Show all posts
Friday, May 20, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
Shocked!
I had to keep on reading the news again and again unable to believe it in my eyes when I saw it for the first time on the television and on the news channels. The West Indies had beaten Pakistan by 40 runs in the first test at Providence. I had not much of a surprise when the West Indies had two consecutive wins against Pakistan in the last two one dayers which came after they had lost three matches earlier to the sub-continent nation. Of course, that was four in a row for the teams considering the West Indies' ten wicket loss to Pakistan in the quarter-finals of the world cup.
But, a test victory for West Indies against Pakistan is indeed something really worth of a praise for the hosts not only for their victory but also for their win in a test match when the spectators all over the world would have other opinions regarding the test status retained for the West Indies by the ICC. Had I been the ICC chief, I would have stripped the West Indies of their test status after Brian Lara retired. I just can't recall when last did the West Indies last win a test match against a decent opposition barring Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.
Likewise, my doubt to you readers is whether the West Indies have won a test match against even Bangladesh for, all I can remember West Indies doing was to lost both the test matches to Bangladesh on their last tour at home two years ago. Since 2007, the West Indies have never faced India in test matches be it on tour or at home. And they have not won a match against South Africa despite the teams meeting each other every year. Can anyone of you tell me when last did West Indies meet England and Australia and New Zealand recently?
Pakistan's dreams have been shattered once again when they lost the first test by 40 runs yesterday. Pakistan, we hear was and is and after this test will always be looking for a test series win against the West Indies in West Indies. Way back in 2005, the Inzamam-Ul-Haq led Pakistan team snatched a win in the 2nd test at Kingston after losing the 1st test at Bridgetown by 276 runs. This time also, all odds favor Pakistan to win over West Indies in the second test starting on 20th at Basseterre but will have to wait for another tour to relish their dreams.
But, a test victory for West Indies against Pakistan is indeed something really worth of a praise for the hosts not only for their victory but also for their win in a test match when the spectators all over the world would have other opinions regarding the test status retained for the West Indies by the ICC. Had I been the ICC chief, I would have stripped the West Indies of their test status after Brian Lara retired. I just can't recall when last did the West Indies last win a test match against a decent opposition barring Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.
Likewise, my doubt to you readers is whether the West Indies have won a test match against even Bangladesh for, all I can remember West Indies doing was to lost both the test matches to Bangladesh on their last tour at home two years ago. Since 2007, the West Indies have never faced India in test matches be it on tour or at home. And they have not won a match against South Africa despite the teams meeting each other every year. Can anyone of you tell me when last did West Indies meet England and Australia and New Zealand recently?
Pakistan's dreams have been shattered once again when they lost the first test by 40 runs yesterday. Pakistan, we hear was and is and after this test will always be looking for a test series win against the West Indies in West Indies. Way back in 2005, the Inzamam-Ul-Haq led Pakistan team snatched a win in the 2nd test at Kingston after losing the 1st test at Bridgetown by 276 runs. This time also, all odds favor Pakistan to win over West Indies in the second test starting on 20th at Basseterre but will have to wait for another tour to relish their dreams.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
What About Tri Series'?
Well..since a year or so, or even before that, there has hardly been any cricket which involves thee nations or more. All the cricket that is now being seen is a bi-lateral series, that is preceded or followed by a test match series. Even if the recent past is being taken into consideration, we can come across series like India-England, South Africa- Bangladesh, Sri Lanka- Zimbabwe, Pakistan- West Indies and so on.This was however the case even before that as well. But, my patience didn't curb until then. Now, this is being taken too far.We hardly getting to watch any good cricket in a tri series or a quadrangular series.
The last time that I remember watching a tri nation tournament or a tournament involving three or more nations is the Asia Cup that was held somewhere in June-July in Karachi. And a week or so before that, we had a tri nation tournament just for the sake of it. A tri nation tournament involving Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, (Kitply Cup) with each team playing against each the other just and only once. And the earlier tri series before that Kitply Cup being the Common Wealth Bank series in Australia. And another triangular series that went off quietly in the mean time was a lesser known one in the series involving West Indies, Bermuda and Canada, held at Canada.
Meaning, in the past year or so, there were only four such multi nation tournaments featuring three or more countries. And only three out of four being major ones, the other one involving minnow nations. If the same is taken in the previous year, excluding that of the world cup, a tournament featuring Scotland, Irelands and the Netherlands is the only one that was being held. Even the earlier ones being held were like- Kenya-Scotland & Canada, ICC World Cricket League Division One which featured only minnows. Its frustrating that most of are not aware that we are really missing out on these tournaments. Even the Sharjah Cup that used to be played is now dropped, god knows why. I can't recall as to when the last Sharjah Cup was played. All I can remember is the one in which Jayasuriya scored 189 and India being all out for 54.
If one is aware, Natwest Series that is played every year in England is now played as a bi-lateral series in England since 2006. The last such triangular series that was played as a part of the Nat West series was in 2005 featuring Australia-England & Bangladesh. I really cannot figure out as to what made the English Cricket Authorities take such a step? Things were going on well.The only multi-nation tournament that can now be witnessed is the Common Wealth Bank series held in Australia in the beginning of every year. And news regarding this series in 2009 is not yet sure. Because, Australia will be playing New Zealand as a continuation of New Zealand's Oz tour from where they left after losing the test series 2-0.
From January 16th (the period during which C B series is usually played), there will be a 5 match ODI series involving Australia and South Africa, following which thre will be New Zealand-Autralia one day series. This one too being bi-lateral. So, no Common Wealth Bank Series this year? Aren't we really fed up with these boring bi-lateral series'? When ICC thinks about bringing in more colour to cricket, involving T20 cricket, and in addition to saving the test cricket, the ICC has to now look upon not to lose out on multi- nation tournaments featuring three or more nations. Else, even the one day matches would turn out to be like boring test matches, which do not attract crowds.
The last time that I remember watching a tri nation tournament or a tournament involving three or more nations is the Asia Cup that was held somewhere in June-July in Karachi. And a week or so before that, we had a tri nation tournament just for the sake of it. A tri nation tournament involving Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, (Kitply Cup) with each team playing against each the other just and only once. And the earlier tri series before that Kitply Cup being the Common Wealth Bank series in Australia. And another triangular series that went off quietly in the mean time was a lesser known one in the series involving West Indies, Bermuda and Canada, held at Canada.
Meaning, in the past year or so, there were only four such multi nation tournaments featuring three or more countries. And only three out of four being major ones, the other one involving minnow nations. If the same is taken in the previous year, excluding that of the world cup, a tournament featuring Scotland, Irelands and the Netherlands is the only one that was being held. Even the earlier ones being held were like- Kenya-Scotland & Canada, ICC World Cricket League Division One which featured only minnows. Its frustrating that most of are not aware that we are really missing out on these tournaments. Even the Sharjah Cup that used to be played is now dropped, god knows why. I can't recall as to when the last Sharjah Cup was played. All I can remember is the one in which Jayasuriya scored 189 and India being all out for 54.
If one is aware, Natwest Series that is played every year in England is now played as a bi-lateral series in England since 2006. The last such triangular series that was played as a part of the Nat West series was in 2005 featuring Australia-England & Bangladesh. I really cannot figure out as to what made the English Cricket Authorities take such a step? Things were going on well.The only multi-nation tournament that can now be witnessed is the Common Wealth Bank series held in Australia in the beginning of every year. And news regarding this series in 2009 is not yet sure. Because, Australia will be playing New Zealand as a continuation of New Zealand's Oz tour from where they left after losing the test series 2-0.
From January 16th (the period during which C B series is usually played), there will be a 5 match ODI series involving Australia and South Africa, following which thre will be New Zealand-Autralia one day series. This one too being bi-lateral. So, no Common Wealth Bank Series this year? Aren't we really fed up with these boring bi-lateral series'? When ICC thinks about bringing in more colour to cricket, involving T20 cricket, and in addition to saving the test cricket, the ICC has to now look upon not to lose out on multi- nation tournaments featuring three or more nations. Else, even the one day matches would turn out to be like boring test matches, which do not attract crowds.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
I never Expected This From Zimbabwe
At present, there are four international cricket tournaments in progress.But,as all of us are aware of, there are hardly any tournaments that are of much thrill and excitement that cricket used to be in the recent past or so. One tournament that was being looked upon by cricket fans in India is the tour of England.But, even that tour is a one sided affair, for England had already given it up even before playing.England never showed any sorts of teeth in restricting the Indians.Now, as expected England have lost the series already after the fourth one day at Bangalore. And the second tournament that is under progress is the tour of New Zealand to Australia. The one day record of New Zealand of New Zealand may say whatever, but, as far as their test statistics goes, I'm really sorry.Even a commanding position in the first innings could not be made use of to any greater extent.Anyway thats another issue altogether.
The third series that took place recently was the one day games between Pakistan and West Indies, which also as expected Pakistan won the series 3-0.With only two out of a lot of 11 West Indian team playing,the result could have not been any better.Some blistering knocks from Chris Gayle earning him the man of the series was a welcome relief for the West Indians.And the other tournament being Bangladesh's tour of South Africa,about which I need not mention anything.But, despite all these boring encounters, there was atleast one match that could raise eye brows.This was the third one day match between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.With the first two games being a mis match, the third game gave it all to the fans.And finally, I was a bit relieved, as atleast once in a bluemoon I could watch a low scoring thriller.Sad that Zimbabwe lost the match at the end of the day, despite an awesome performance by the opening batsman Mazakadza.
With each and every cricket match being a boring affair these days, I pray god that atleast in the oming season there be some interesting encounters, which could make up one's day. Else, watching the hame of cricket would be a punishment rather than entertainment.Bye.
The third series that took place recently was the one day games between Pakistan and West Indies, which also as expected Pakistan won the series 3-0.With only two out of a lot of 11 West Indian team playing,the result could have not been any better.Some blistering knocks from Chris Gayle earning him the man of the series was a welcome relief for the West Indians.And the other tournament being Bangladesh's tour of South Africa,about which I need not mention anything.But, despite all these boring encounters, there was atleast one match that could raise eye brows.This was the third one day match between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.With the first two games being a mis match, the third game gave it all to the fans.And finally, I was a bit relieved, as atleast once in a bluemoon I could watch a low scoring thriller.Sad that Zimbabwe lost the match at the end of the day, despite an awesome performance by the opening batsman Mazakadza.
With each and every cricket match being a boring affair these days, I pray god that atleast in the oming season there be some interesting encounters, which could make up one's day. Else, watching the hame of cricket would be a punishment rather than entertainment.Bye.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Pakistan Plays a Series At Home Away From Home
At last,there is some relief as one more series kicks off in style for Pakistan.No matter where and the schedule.But,its only the series what matters.And,its not good for Pakistan cricket to expect too much taking into consideration the scenario in Pakistan.I think that Pakistan has to consider itself too lucky for being the only team that have played a home series away from home.First according to my memory being against Australia in 2002 played at Sharjah and now against the West Indies at Abu Dhabi that is under progress.No other team has so far got this privilege I suppose.
I never thought and never expected Pakistan to play a single test or an one day international, once the Australian Tour to Pakistan was canceled earlier this year and later the ICC Champions Trophy too.Now,its good that the West Indies have understood their plight and decided to give them some relief.Finally Pakistan got its due for the year 2008 with the West Indies making to Pakistan at Abu Dhabi.
Otherwise also,the year 2008 has gone without cricket for Pakistan,with its earlier two tours being against Bangladesh in April and the other being against Zimbabwe in January.Both of them being minnow teams.The matches against these teams gave Pakistan a consecutive 11 one day wins.Now,with two wins against another minnow team in West Indies,the toll has gone up to 13.Considering that Pakistan win the third one day international too against the West Indies,the feat will be extended to 14.The next major even in Pakistan's cricket would be the tour of India in early 2009.But,some hints that even this tour is under threat,citing the same security concerns are on.
Now,even if this tour gets canceled and the same being replaced by some minnow be it Kenya (who replaced South Africa in 2003 Sharjah Cup) or Ireland-two of the most leading one day inspires,there is no doubt that Pakistan could make something out of it by overtaking Australia's unbeaten 21 consecutive winning streak in 2003 (from their win against England in the VB Series 2003 until their one day series against West Indies after the world cup).I wonder how bad the Aussies would feel if this happens which would add fuel to the fire that India ignited by defeating them 2-0in the recent B-G Trophy.Sorry Australia.
I never thought and never expected Pakistan to play a single test or an one day international, once the Australian Tour to Pakistan was canceled earlier this year and later the ICC Champions Trophy too.Now,its good that the West Indies have understood their plight and decided to give them some relief.Finally Pakistan got its due for the year 2008 with the West Indies making to Pakistan at Abu Dhabi.
Otherwise also,the year 2008 has gone without cricket for Pakistan,with its earlier two tours being against Bangladesh in April and the other being against Zimbabwe in January.Both of them being minnow teams.The matches against these teams gave Pakistan a consecutive 11 one day wins.Now,with two wins against another minnow team in West Indies,the toll has gone up to 13.Considering that Pakistan win the third one day international too against the West Indies,the feat will be extended to 14.The next major even in Pakistan's cricket would be the tour of India in early 2009.But,some hints that even this tour is under threat,citing the same security concerns are on.
Now,even if this tour gets canceled and the same being replaced by some minnow be it Kenya (who replaced South Africa in 2003 Sharjah Cup) or Ireland-two of the most leading one day inspires,there is no doubt that Pakistan could make something out of it by overtaking Australia's unbeaten 21 consecutive winning streak in 2003 (from their win against England in the VB Series 2003 until their one day series against West Indies after the world cup).I wonder how bad the Aussies would feel if this happens which would add fuel to the fire that India ignited by defeating them 2-0in the recent B-G Trophy.Sorry Australia.
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