Rain eats up first warm-up for Windies, only 34 overs possible.Tag
WI-Eng-2012
Rain is never far away from England, specially when summer is only breaking through. West Indies have embarked on English tour early in cricketing season but they were left frustrated by rain which allowed only 34 overs in their first 3 day warm-up match..Day 1 was a huge disappointment for visitors as not a single ball was bowled at Probiz county ground due to persistent rain. Moreover, Windies had just 11 fit players out of 12 that are currently in England (Fidel Edwards is still struggling with back problems) while 3 others awaited visa clearance. Match finally started in the afternoon of day 2 after overnight rain had left outfield soggy. Visitors elected to bat in full cloud cover and floodlights on - lost two wickets in 18 overs before bad light stopped play just before the tea back. Kieran Powell showed good technique to counter tough conditions but other opener Adrian Barath and vice captain Kirk Edwards didn't last long. Barath was bowled by Kirk Wernars off the last ball of his first over while Edwards edged one to third slip after he was given a life at first slip off first delivery he faced. Only 16 more overs were possible on third and last day before play was abandoned. West Indies moved from 46 to 90, losing Kieran Powell who was once again looking authoritive in his judgement on which balls to play and when to sway away. Darren Bravo and Shivnarine Chanderpual were at the crease when match was called off as a draw. Interestingly, Sussex didn't use their star spinner, Monty Panesar, at all, hinting that he's next in line if Graeme Swann fails to play in one of coming three tests. Speaking about the lack of action, Bravo said: “It’s a little bit frustrating. The guys really wanted to get out there and get as much match practice as possible, with a Test match starting in a few days. But we can’t do anything about it.” The weather, though, has not detracted from Bravo’s enthusiasm as he prepares for a Test at the home of cricket. “It’s going to be a great feeling to go out there and play a Test match at Lord’s,” he said. “It’s the home of cricket, so playing there is something special. I’m really looking forward to it. My dad will be there as well, so it’s going to be a special occasion.”
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