Comeback and how ?

“Man of the series at age 39, come on youngsters what is happening”. 

These were the exact words of Chris Gayle when he received the Man of the Series Award (424 runs in 4 matches) for the recently concluded England vs West Indies ODI series. Even though, the West Indies had the location advantage but the England team was clearly the favourite to win the series. (Favourites to win the World Cup too!). However, the destiny had something else in mind. After defeating them in Test Series, West Indies team posted a tough challenge to the visitors in the ODIs too. The series was too competitive and the WI team certainly raised the bar of competitiveness. (Even though we know that West Indies can be simply catastrophic in T20s at times, but the same cannot be concluded in the ODIs). Let me summarise the 5 match ODI series for you:

-First ODI- WI posted a competitive total of 360 in 50 overs in which Gayle’s contribution was 135 runs. However, as it turned out, it wasn’t enough. England chased down the total with 8 balls remaining. Roy and Root scored centuries and England won by 6 wickets.
-Second ODI- WI posted a total of 289. This time Hetmyer scored a century. However, this time England couldn’t chase the required total and lost by 26 runs.
 -Third ODI- Match abandoned due to rain. However, if this wouldn’t have happened I would have liked to see who won the series.
 -Fourth ODI- This match was truly a GEM. England posted a total of 418 in their 50 overs with Morgan and Butler (SR-194.81) scoring centuries. In response, WI gave a strong reply. Gayle scored a fantastic 162. However, this wasn’t enough as WI lost by 29 runs. However, the highlight off the match was the magical over by Adil Rashid who took 4 wickets within a span of 5 balls only. From 389-6, WI team were all out on 389 itself.
 -Fifth ODI- WI bowlers performed here as they dismissed England for a meagre 113 and won the match comfortably by 7 wickets. Gayle counter attacked with a SR OF 285.19.

Well, WI team have conveyed their intentions dominantly. They are not to be taken lightly in the upcoming World Cup. Even though they had to fight (play qualifying matches) to compete in the World Cup, but they are to be taken seriously. And the beast- Chris Gayle is to be tamed early by the opposition if they wish to hold the trophy. The World Cup is near and it’s in the Round-Robin format this time (which means more competitiveness and more thrill and excitement for the audience). Let’s hope India takes this one home!