Nicholas Pooran is currently going through a dream patch in his career. The young left-handed batter recently led his team to a historic series-clinching victory over the Indian side. Pooran smashed brilliant 47 runs off 35 deliveries in the fifth T20I against India.

Pooran even won the ‘Player of the Series’ award for his consistent performance throughout the five-match series. The 27-year-old batter amassed overall 176 runs in the leg, comprising one half-century. However, what surprised many was Pooran’s absence from the award ceremony.

It is worth mentioning that Pooran did not show up to collect the ‘Player of the Series’ award after the conclusion of the match, and his captain Rovman Powell received the trophy on his behalf. The incident left many confused and wondering about the reason behind Pooran’s absence.

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Nicholas Pooran did not collect the ‘Player of the Series’ award

In the past few years, Pooran has become a big and popular name in the cricketing arena. He is often seen participating in various leagues across the world and has an occupied work schedule. Even before joining the West Indies camp for the India series, Pooran was busy sweating in the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023, where he guided his franchise MI New York (MINY) to their maiden title by slamming a sensational century in the final of the inaugural event.

There was a similar reason behind Pooran skipping the post-match award ceremony after the fifth T20I against Men in Blue as he had to catch a pre-scheduled flight following the match.

West Indies wins first bilateral T20I series against India in 17 years

Coming back to the T20I series between West Indies and India, Pooran’s exploit not only earned him the ‘Player of the Series’ award but also led Men in Maroon to snatch a bilateral series from the Indian team for the first time in 17 years.

Apart from Pooran, Romario Shepherd also played a significant role in West Indies’ series-clinching win. The Caribbean pacer claimed four wickets in the series decider for 31 runs.

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Team India’s quest for ICC tournament victories has encountered challenges in recent years. Despite their historic win in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and their triumphant campaign in the Cricket World Cup in 2011, India’s success in ICC competitions has been limited since then. Their last ICC trophy, the Champions Trophy, was secured in 2013, guided by the leadership of MS Dhoni. Subsequently, India has faced difficulty in consistently clinching titles in global tournaments.

Former West Indies all-rounder Daren Sammy, who has himself tasted success in World titles, acknowledged India’s abundant cricketing talent. However, he also didn’t shy away from subtly pointing out the absence of major trophies in India’s collection. Notably, West Indies, under the captaincy of Sammy, managed to capture two T20 World Cups, in 2012 and 2016, showcasing their prowess in the shortest format of the game.

Also READ: India’s All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI

Sammy applauds young Indian players while playfully addressing India’s ICC trophy drought

West Indies coach Sammy expressed high admiration for India’s emerging batting talent, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who showcased his talent by scoring an impressive 171 on his Test debut against the Windies in Dominica last month.

Speaking about Jaiswal’s exceptional performance, Sammy not only commended the young player’s skills but also credited the robust foundation laid by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the high standards of First-Class cricket in the country. The 39-year-old acknowledged the significant resources that have contributed to the development of remarkable players like Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, and Sanju Samson.

Nevertheless, amid the appreciation, Sammy playfully poked fun at India’s lack of ICC tournament victories. While praising the individual talents and the cricketing system in India, the Micoud-born cricketer highlighted the noticeable absence of ICC trophies since 2013, alluding to India’s title drought in major international tournaments.

“When you the see the players they’ve been able to produce, Hardik Pandya, (Yashasvi) Jaiswal all the guys they produced over the years but you must also remember who’s winning the international tournaments,” Sammy said to Vimal Kumar on the latter’s YouTube channel.

“Like I said, Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson who didn’t play, he’s been performing. Hardik Pandya who’s young but he is seasoned in the team. Again, it speaks of the system they have that keeps producing these youngsters. Jaiswal has 1800 runs in First Class cricket in nine matches, nine hundreds and then he comes to Dominica in his debut game and he looks like he belonged at the international level. That comes from the standard of First Class cricket in India that is allowing the youngsters that when they come in to be ready for international cricket,” Sammy concluded.

During the current West Indies tour, India emerged victorious in the Test and ODI series. Nonetheless, they are currently behind by 2-1 in the five-game T20I series. The second-to-last T20I is scheduled to take place in Florida on Saturday (August 12).

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The upcoming five-match T20 series between West Indies and India promises to be an exciting contest, with India entering as the favourites following their dominant performances in the preceding Test and ODI series. The action will kick off on Thursday (August 3) at the historic Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad.

India’s clean sweep in the Test series followed by a 2-1 victory in the ODI series have showcased their form and depth across formats. As they transition to the shortest format, they will look to maintain their momentum and build on their strengths. On the other hand, the West Indies, being the title holder of T20 World Cup champions in 2012 and 2018, will be keen to put up a strong fight in front of their home crowd.

The venues for the T20 series provide an exciting mix, with the opening match taking place at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad. The series will then move to Providence Stadium in Guyana for the second and third matches on August 6 and 8, respectively, offering cricket fans in Guyana a chance to witness some high-octane action.

Also Read: WI vs IND 2023: India’s best playing XI for the T20I series against West Indies

The tour will culminate with fourth and fifth T20I on August 12 and 13 at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, Florida, USA. This fixture holds added significance as both West Indies and the USA are official hosts for the next edition of the T20 World Cup in 2024, making it a perfect opportunity for players to acclimatize to the conditions.

Here is West Indies’ best playing XI for the five-match T20I series against India:

The West Indies team’s selection for the upcoming five-match T20 series against India have a good mix of experienced players and talented youngsters. Rovman Powell, who has been named vice-captain, will provide valuable leadership support to the team. Alongside him, Kyle Mayers, who has shown great potential with his all-round abilities, will be a crucial asset for the team.

Johnson Charles, the experienced campaigner, brings stability to the batting lineup. He is a hard-hitting top-order batsman with the ability to take on the opposition’s bowling attack. Charles can set the tone at the beginning of the innings and provide a solid platform for the power-hitters to follow.

The specialist batters in the squad, including Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer and Brandon King  are known for their explosive batting prowess in the T20 format. Their ability to score quick runs and clear the boundaries will be instrumental in setting up competitive totals or chasing down targets effectively.

Pooran, the left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman is a dynamic player in the T20 format. He possesses incredible power-hitting abilities and can clear the boundaries effortlessly. Pooran’s innovative stroke-play and ability to find gaps in the field make him a dangerous batsman in the middle overs. He can be a game-changer and anchor the innings when needed.

Also Watch: Nicholas Pooran hits 3 sixes in 4 balls during MI New York’s thumping win over Washington Freedom

Hetmyer is also known for his aggressive approach at the crease. He has a wide range of shots and can take on bowlers from the outset. Hetmyer’s ability to hit big sixes and rotate the strike with ease adds depth to the West Indies batting order.

King is a valuable addition to the squad. King has showcased his power-hitting abilities in domestic T20 leagues and can be a valuable asset at the top of the order. He can provide quick starts and build partnerships with his aggressive style of play.

In the pace bowling department, the West Indies will rely on the experience and skill of players like Jason Holder, Obed McCoy, Odean Smith and Oshane Thomas. These bowlers have the pace and variations to trouble the opposition batsmen and take wickets at crucial stages of the game.

Holder, the former West Indies captain brings a wealth of experience to the team. He is known for his ability to swing the ball and extract bounce from the pitches. Holder’s tall frame and variations in pace make him a potent threat in both the powerplay and death overs. His accuracy and ability to bowl tight lines can put pressure on the opposition batsmen and result in crucial breakthroughs.

McCoy has impressed with his performances in recent times. He has the ability to bowl with good pace and generate swing. McCoy’s variations in pace and deceptive slower balls can be effective in the shorter format. He has the knack of picking up wickets at crucial junctures, and his ability to bowl effective yorkers in the death overs can make him a valuable asset for the West Indies.

Smith has shown promise with both bat and ball. He can bowl at a lively pace and has the ability to hit the deck hard, extracting extra bounce from the surface. Smith’s aggressive approach and ability to generate pace make him a challenging proposition for the opposition batsmen. His capability to contribute with both bat and ball adds depth to the West Indies lineup.

Thomas is a young and exciting talent known for his express pace. He has the ability to clock high speeds and trouble the batsmen with his raw pace. Thomas can be a genuine wicket-taker, especially during the powerplay overs, where early breakthroughs are crucial.

Akeal Hossain’s role in the spin department will be crucial for the West Indies in the T20 series against India. As the lone specialist spinner in the squad, he will have the responsibility of controlling the game in the middle overs and providing valuable breakthroughs when needed.

In the fast-paced and high-scoring T20 format, spinners play a vital role in maintaining control over the run flow and building pressure on the opposition batsmen. Hossain’s ability to bowl accurately, vary his pace, and deceive the batters with his spin will be essential in restricting the flow of runs during the middle phase of the innings.

Overall, the West Indies team looks well-balanced with a blend of power-hitters, solid middle-order batsmen, and effective bowlers. The combination of experience and youth in the squad will be key to their success in the series against a strong Indian side.

West Indies’ best XI for the T20I series against India:

Rovman Powell (c), Kyle Mayers (vc), Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran, Johnson Charles, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Obed McCoy, Odean Smith, Oshane Thomas.

West Indies’ T20I squad for the India series: 

Rovman Powell (c), Kyle Mayers (vc), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Obed McCoy, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Oshane Thomas.

Also Read: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma earn call-ups as BCCI names India’s T20I squad for West Indies tour

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The second ODI of the three-match series between West Indies and India saw Men in Blue facing an embarrassing defeat at the hands of the hosts. Although the loss came as a big disappointment for the Indian side, there also took place a lighter moment involving Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav during the match that sent a laughter bombshell among cricket enthusiasts.

India’s struggle with the bat:

Asked to bat first, India felt the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they struggled to build significant partnerships and were bundled out for a below-par total of 181 runs in 40.5 overs. Ishan Kishan top-scored for the visitors and played a solid knock of 55 runs, but the rest of the Indian batting lineup faltered, and none could edge past the 40-run mark. Gudakesh Motie was the standout performer with the ball for West Indies, claiming three wickets for 36 runs in 9.5 overs. Romario Shepherd also impressed and bagged three scalps.

In reply, West Indies displayed a strong batting performance as the Caribbean skipper Shai Hope showcased his class and composure. Hope scored a crucial 63 runs off 80 balls for the hosts. Keacy Carty contributed with valuable 48 in the run chase  as well. On the other hand, India found themselves helpless and against the Windies duo. It was during this time that Suryakumar opted for a hilarious way to motivate his teammate Kuldeep.

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Suryakumar Yadav’s hilarious address of Kuldeep Yadav:

Suryakumar was caught on stump mic hailing Kuldeep as the Indian team’s ‘Kachra’ from the famous movie Lagaan as he hoped for a magical spell from the Uttar Pradesh spinner in the middle overs. However, the Mumbai cricketer’s efforts to motivate his fellow went in vain as West Indies managed to reach the target comfortably in 36.4 overs with six wickets in hand.

Here’s the video:

http://twitter.com/me_sanjureddy/status/1685701642526859264

With the win West Indies levelled the leg (1-1), and the third and final ODI at the Brian Lara stadium in Trinidad on August 1 will now serve as a series decider.

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After two power-packed Test matches, West Indies will now host India for a three-match ODI series. The opening game of the ODI leg will take place at the iconic Kensington Oval in Barbados on Thursday (July 27). The match will begin at 7:00 pm IST/ 01:30 pm GMT / 09:30 am local.

Speaking of the Kensington Oval cricket ground, the stadium was established in 1871 and has hosted 45 ODI games so far. Notably, many prestigious ICC tournaments have also been held at this venue, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2007. The Kensington Oval is located in Barbados and has a capacity of 28,000.

ODI stats and records at the Kensington Oval Barbados:

• Matches played: 45
• Matches won by team batting first: 19 (44.22%)
• Matches won by team batting second: 25 (55.56%)
• Matches won by the team winning the toss: 24 (53.33%)
• Matches won by the team losing the toss: 20 (44.44%)
• Highest score: 364/4 (England)
• Lowest score: 91 (Ireland)
• Average score: 230

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Kensington Oval Barbados Pitch Report:

The surface at Kensington Oval provides equal assistance to both batters and bowlers. The track provides good bounce and carry to batters, and the ball comes nicely onto the bat as the game progresses. However, spinners are also expected to receive some help from the pitch due to its slow nature. Meanwhile, seamers will completely rely on their ability to bowl in the right areas with no movement from the track. Considering the conditions and past records at the Kensington Oval, the team winning the toss will prefer to chase.

Kensington Oval Barbados Weather Forecast:

The weather at Kensington Oval in Barbados is expected to be delightful for the entire day, with abundant sunshine and no chance of rain during the match. Spectators and players can anticipate a perfect day for cricket. The temperature is expected to hover around 27 degrees Celsius with humidity levels to be around 79% and the wind blowing at a speed of 26 Km/hr.

WI vs IND 1st ODI, Probable XIs:

West Indies: Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (wk/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Alzarri Joseph, Oshane Thomas, Jayden Seales

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat

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