News

Taylor ready to lead the West Indies attack against Australia

23/11/09

BRISBANE, Australia -- West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor said he is fit, ready and able to lead the bowling attack in the upcoming Test Series against Australia. The 25-year-old was speaking after the West Indies had a full three-hour net session on Monday at the Gabba in Brisbane. Taylor outlined that the Windies are carefully planning strategy to reap success in the upcoming three Tests.

The first match bowls off on Thursday at the Gabba. First ball is 10 am (8 pm Wednesday Eastern Caribbean Time/7 pm Jamaica Time) as the two teams compete for the coveted Frank Worrell Trophy.

The lively right-arm pacer pushed himself in the nets and said he was pleased with the work-out as he looks to make sure he is full ready for the opening encounter.

“I had a very good day in the nets and I’m happy with my build-up to the Test matches. Over the coming days I will continue to put in the work to make sure I’m fully ready for what promises to be a very good series,” Taylor said. “I am fully aware the team will be looking to me to lead the attack and I am sure I will be able to handle that responsibility.”

Looking at the pitch and the lush green outfield, he noted: “I can’t wait to get out there and bowl. As a fast bowler, that’s my thing ... that’s my job and I want to get into action. If there is any life in the pitch it is a plus for us because back home in the Caribbean we are accustomed to very flat and low wickets.”

Taylor is the most experienced member of the pace attack. He has taken 81 wickets in 28 Tests including a magical 5-11 against England which won the opening match at Sabina Park in February. Two months earlier he recorded his maiden Test and first-class century, a blazing 106 against New Zealand at Dunedin, which showcased his batting skills.

Taylor said planning is key.

“We have been looking at footage of the opponents and we know the areas where we need to be strong in, both batting and bowling. We have outlined certain things we will be working on. Australia have a lot of firepower but they are beatable. We are conditioned in our minds to go out and put up a good fight and to take it to the Australians. The pressure should not be on us. If we are the underdogs we are not expected to win but we will be going out there to put up a big show. We believe in our ability and we are confident of doing well.”

After the Gabba, the second Test will be at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide from Friday December 4 to Tuesday December 8; while the third Test will be at the WACA Ground in Perth from Wednesday December 16 to Sunday December 20.