Wednesday, March 14, 2007

A Tale of Two Dwaynes – Hosts West Indies Secure First Victory of World Cup Over Pakistan

World Cup 2007 Hosts West Indies overcame a shaky start with a 54-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match, with an impressive allround performance from Dwayne Smith. The West Indies set a total of 241.

Captain Brian Lara's side successfully defended a target of 242 and dismissed Pakistan for 187 in 47.2 overs after being put into bat first by Pakistan Captain Inzamam-ul- Haq. The 2 Dwayes were pick of the bowlers with Dwayne Bravo collecting three for 42 from nine overs, and Dwayne Smith snaring three wickets for 36 runs from his allotment of 10 overs. The hosts are regarded as the Dark Horses of the tournament and looked to lack a bit of confidence after the first wicket of Chris Gayle fell for 2 after a catch by Kamran Akmal.

However, the ship steadied with Marlon Samuels striking five fours and three sixes ending on a top score of 63. Assistance came from useful contributions by Ramnaresh Sarwan (49), Brian Lara (37), and Dwayne Smith, who smashed 32 from 15 balls to raise the total to a respectable challenge.

Pakistan fought back, but top scores by Shoaib Malik (62), Mohammad Yousuf (37) and Inzamam-ul-Haq (36) were not enough and Pakistan were all out for 187.

OUR MAN OF THE MATCH
Dwayne Smith

Full Name: Dwayne Romel Smith
Country: West Indies
Born: 12/05/1983, Barbados
Age: 23 years
Batting Style: Right-hand bat
Bowling Style: Right-arm medium

Virtually unknown, Smith made his debut in December 2003, against South Africa. On the final day of the third Test at Newlands, he brought the calypso back to Caribbean cricket with a wonderful debut century. Smith had been given a surprise opportunity when Marlon Samuels flew home with a knee injury. His flamboyant hitting is matched by his athletic fielding, while his useful medium-pacers have already tasted some success at domestic level for Barbados.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

No comments: