West Indies vs England: Key learnings from the ODI series
West Indies produced a scintillating display to down England in the fifth ODI and square the series at 2-2. Both sides shared the trophy in one of the most fascinating ODI series in recent times. Windies thrashed England by seven wickets in the final encounter to ensure they go into the World Cup with their heads held high. Here are the key learnings.
Chris Gayle peaks at the right time
This was a series that belonged to 39-year-old Chris Gayle. He hadn't played much cricket coming into the series and that was witnessed in the first match when he labored at the start. But the time spent at the crease helped him. In four ODIs, Gayle hit two tons and two fifties. He amassed 424 runs that included 39 sixes and a 19-ball fifty.
Windies show remarkable improvement in ODI cricket
Windies, who thrashed England in the Test series earlier, drew plenty of confidence. The side rallied around Gayle and the spirit helped Jason Holder's men to show their mettle. Not everything went well, but Windies showed remarkable improvement across the four matches. They could have won the series after almost having chased down 419 in the fourth ODI. They will build from here on.
England's adaptability not quite there
England played well at times but the overall ruthlessness was missing. In two matches they collapsed with the bat. On Saturday, they faltered remarkably from 111/5 to 113/10. Their adaptability on tricky pitches presents a question. In the fifth ODI, the batting fell prey on a bouncy wicket. The bowlers also leaked runs in the two other high-scoring affairs with Gayle unsettling them.
England will have to address the shortcomings
England's batting firepower might help them to win games and chase down totals in the World Cup. But teams will monitor this performance and identify the shortcomings. England possess a moment of madness with the bat and challenging surfaces and situations will test them severely. Sometimes, they go that extra mile in terms of attack and that needs to be curbed down.
What will they bring in the World Cup?
Windies may not have won and ODI series since 2014, but this result could help them surprise teams in the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. They have a decent bowling unit, who are keen to learn and with Gayle in such form, WI could play a fearless brand of cricket. Meanwhile, England are ranked number one and are still the hot favorites at home.
