Hesson wary of unpredictable Windies

2015 World Cup

Cricket365
March 19, 2015

New Zealand coach Mike Hesson is wary of the West Indies ahead of their World Cup quarter-final, saying that such an unpredictable side is more dangerous that a team playing consistently well.

The Windies managed to scrape into the quarters on the last day of the group stage, beating the UAE and having to wait for Pakistan to beat Ireland. The Windies also lost to Ireland, and were destroyed by South Africa, but then also beat Pakistan.

Hesson, whose side won all six of their group games to end top of the group, feels the Caribbean side poses a big threat, as players like Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels can take the game away if they're in the mood.

Hesson said: "They're a dangerous side. When you think they're down, one of their players comes out and plays an explosive innings or bowls a spell that takes you out of the game.

"Sometimes, it’s easier to play a side that’s more predictable whereas West Indies on their day are exceptional.

"The way they destroyed Pakistan at Hagley certainly suggests they're a side who can beat anyone on their day.

"That’s certainly what we expect from them."

Of his side's selector, Hesson said that fast bowler Adam Milne was likely to be fit to play, having missed a few matches with a shoulder niggle. While the injury wasn't too serious, Hesson hadn't wanted to risk him till now.

He added: "Shoulders react a bit differently, they stiffen up and when you've got a guy trying to bowl 150 kmh, you can't really afford anyone to be sore.

"We showed some caution there but he’s fully fit to take part in training and we'll see how that goes."