'Honest and open chats' pay off for Bravo

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Cricket365
December 27, 2013

Skipper Dwayne Bravo lauded an impressive performance from the West Indian bowlers, on the back of Thursday's two-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI at Eden Park in Auckland.

Two wickets apiece – amid very economical spells – from new-ball bowlers Ravi Rampaul and Jason Holder caused the opposition early alarm, after which Bravo's four-for capped a weak total of 156 all out.

The Windies' reply stuttered, but ultimately ensured victory – and a vital series lead – with all of 135 deliveries to spare. Former skipper Darren Sammy was named Man of the Match after striking five fours and three sixes during a cavalier 43 not out.

"There's a confidence in the bowlers and it showed. They put the pressure on the Kiwis and helped our fresh faces integrate into the line-up. I've had honest and open chats with them and as the frontline, it's important to discuss our brand of bowling and the attitude out there," said Bravo.

"This is what I'd like to see as a leader. Our bowling from Ravi and Jason was tight and precise and factoring in Sunil Narine, this gives us an advantage. Over the past few years, we've always had strength in bowling and we must play to this.

"We made sure to execute our game plans with the ball against New Zealand and I, myself, had to improve after coming into question as a death bowler this year. So we all knew we had to step it up.

"Our bowling and fielding were spot on and we still have to note that there's room to improve with the bat. The pitch wasn't the best to bat on but it was a good one to deliver to."

The second ODI will get underway in Napier on Sunday. Queenstown, Nelson and Hamilton will host fixtures three, four and five respectively. Two Twenty20 Internationals will follow.