On paper at least, the winners of the first two World Cup tournaments should have no problem negotiating the group stages of this year’s competition. But West Indies supporters have become accustomed to disappointment and will be approaching this World Cup with trepidation especially as the match with Bangladesh looks like an effective knockout encounter. On their day, the boys from the Caribbean can beat anyone especially if Chris Gayle fires, but ignominious exit at the group stages would hardly be a major surprise.
Strengths
There is depth and firepower in the batting with the likes of Gayle, Sarwan, Chanderpaul, Barath and the Bravo brothers. If Pollard can finally transfer his IPL form to the international stage then West Indies could go into orbit. Benn is a canny spinner and conditions should suit him, whilst Roach is an immensely promising fast bowler.
Weaknesses
In a word, inconsistency. This team can be champs one day and chumps the next. The bowling looks lacking in depth and batting collapses seem to occur all too frequently.
Main man
If he is in the mood, Chris Gayle - the coolest dude in cricket – can flay any attack.
Look out for…
The antics of Sulieman Benn, whether it is getting into heated rows with opposing batsmen or umpires, or even refusing to bowl around the wicket, watching him on the field is unmissable. Captain Darren Sammy’s musings on Twitter are also worth a gambit.
Prediction
The game with Bangladesh looks like the mother of all banana skins and whilst they could give England a run for their money, we predict a first round exit for Sammy’s band of merry men.
Where next?
World Cup Team previews: Part 1 - India: Glory or effigies?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 2 - South Africa: Don't mention the 'C' word...
World Cup Team Previews: Part 3 - Bangladesh: Shock & Awe
Our XI to shine at the World Cup
Heroes: Chris Gayle, Darren Sammy, Malcolm Marshall and Michael Holding
Check out all our other Reverse Sweep heroes and zeroes
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