If England had analyzed their fixtures before the World Cup started, this particular one against West Indies would have been marked as a “competitive warm-up” match- a match that would give them good practice for the higher quality in the next stage which they , OBVIOUSLY, thought they were going to be in. However, if such complacency was ever present in that English camp, they’ve paid the price for it. Their match against West Indies will decide if they head home for an early winter or continue to bask in the sub-continent summer. BIG match. Lets see what’s in store.
Most runs scored
England came into the tournament with a refreshing new batting order. But things haven’t quite worked out for them as  only 3 batsmen- in Strauss, Trott and Bell- have shown consistency of any sort. The rest of the batting has been contributing in bits and pieces on select occasions and hence putting England in a situation as sticky as this. But the return of Morgan has lent incredible stability to the line-up.
West Indies have as been impulsive and exciting as always. They’ve won 3 on the trot now. But only against Ireland, Bangladesh and Netherlands. They were overhauled by South Africa and their batting was not too convincing against the minnows either. However, Darren Bravo, Devon Smith and Pollard have been in good touch. What they’ll really be hoping for, though, is Sarwan and Chanderpaul to click and for Gayle to go berserk at the top. There’s a good chance on of the 3 will stop their bad run in the tournament, against England.
Available odds: Strauss @ 4.00; Trott @ 4.50; Morgan/Bell @ 5.50; Gayle @ 3.75; Smith/Bravo @ 5.50; Sarwan/Chanderpaul @ 6.00; Pollard @ 7.00
that_guy’s picks: Trott @ 4.50; Chanderpaul @ 6.00
Most wickets
England’s bowling woes have become something of a “known” now. Bresnan and Swann have been the shining lights for them and everyone else a dull patch of *words you would use while sitting in a bar*.
West Indies are riding a high tide in terms of their bowling. Kemar Roach has led this inexperienced attack brilliantly. As has Suleiman Benn. But again, the depth is not quite there. This match will be a tussle between the batting and which of the two teams’ bowlers will strike lucky.
Available odds: Swann @ 2.87; Bresnan/Anderson @ 4.50; Benn @ 3.50; Roach @ 3.50; Nikita Miller @ 5.00
that_guy’s picks: Swann @ 2.87; Benn @ 3.50
Match result
For the first time, two teams have managed to make my job hard! By far the most exciting match of the tournament so far. Winning this match guarantees qualification for both teams. England have a lot of pressure on them at the moment and the critics back home will be eyeing them very closely. West Indies on the other hand will be the more relaxed of the sides. Sammy represents the West India spirit completely and under his leadership, the boys from the Caribbean will be looking to go out and have some fun. And, SOMEHOW, that’s what I feel will win this game for them.
Available odds: England @ 1.61; West Indies @ 2.30
that_guy’s pick: West Indies @ 2.30
[All odds taken from 888sport]