-Cementing place for future series important for ‘newbies’

By Clifton Ross

With the first One Day International (ODI) bowling off in just a few days, new West Indies all-rounder Kyle Mayers is urging his fellow newcomers to make the most of this Bangladesh series, should they seek to solidify their places for future series.

Back in October 2020, the Bajan, Mayers, was also named in the Twenty/20 International (T20I) squad for the series against New Zealand, where he later made his debut.The hard-hitting all-rounder, later in December 2020, found spots in both the West Indies’ Test and 50 overs squads for the upcoming Bangladesh clash.

Speaking on possibly making his ODI debut, Mayers said he was super elated but more fixed on giving 100 per-cent come next week, should he feature in the starting XI for the first match. “It would mean the world to me (to make my ODI debut). As a child, it was my dream to represent the West Indies and, being given that honor, it would be very special to me”, said the all-rounder during Saturday’s press conference with West Indies media.

Prior to the series, a number of high-profile stars opted out because of Covid-19 concerns, resulting in selectors adding a number of new faces while recalling a few past players as part of their new-look side.

Despite some inexperience in the side, Mayers was confident that himself and teammates are willing to make the most of the opportunity; urging them to do well in order to keep their places for the upcoming series following Bangladesh.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for the younger guys to establish themselves in international cricket. It’s important to gain experience and to try to go out there and play as hard as possible and make themselves available for the next series”. The 28-year-old is among the in-form limited overs players in the Caribbean and with four half-centuries and a ton in his List A career, he said batting well for him is key to this series.

“I think my batting will be most useful for the side. After assessing the conditions in Bangladesh, I think my batting will be most useful in the series. Also, I think with a bit of experience at the international level, I can get there”, Mayers pointed out.

Given the likes of Veerasammy Permaul, and ODI skipper Jason Mohammed being among the faces to return, but more importantly, two key spinners along with seamers Mayers, Chemar Holder and Alzarri Joseph, the Barbados Tridents player is firm that the unity and familiarity among the youngsters will play a key role in the Windies pursuit of success.

“I think the bowling department is a bit inexperienced, but the batting to me is very good. I played with these guys in the ‘A’ team series against New Zealand and they are used to playing with each other. So apart from that, I think the bowling will be the most difficult part for us”, he ended.