West Indies lost the first T20 International in Grenada by four runs despite scoring in excess of 200 runs in fantasy games. Kieron Pollard and Co had to win the second contest to keep alive their chance of winning the series. But their hopes were dashed after rain had the last laugh at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts. The third and final T20I of the series is scheduled to be played at the same venue.
Though the Caribbean team has lost the chance of winning the series in fantasy cricket, they could still evade a series defeat. On the other hand, Ireland would believe that they somewhat got out of jail last time around. Barring their openers, Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien, none of the batters has made a significant impact. Though they are 1-0 ahead, topping the West Indies may not be an easy task.
Pitch and Conditions
In the 2019 CPL, St Kitts and Nevis Patriots chased down 242 at the very ground in 18.5 overs. It pretty much throws light on the nature of the strip. Moreover, out of the seven completed T20Is, five were won by the team, batting second. There are chances of rain throughout the day and there could be delays. The clouds will be there throughout with the temperature at 24 degrees Celsius.
Team Combination
West Indies
Evin Lewis scored 55 in the first game and is in good rhythm. The rest of the batting unit has chipped in with useful contributions as well. Kieron Pollard and Sherfane Rutherford have strike-rates in excess of 200 and their role will be critical. The West Indies captain also has four wickets. In the bowling area, Sheldon Cottrell has been their standout with four wickets at an economy of 5.87.
Probable XI
Lendl Simmons, Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Kieron Pollard (C), Sherfane Rutherford, Dwayne Bravo, Hayden Walsh Jr, Khary Pierre, Sheldon Cottrell, Romario Shepherd
Ireland
For the visitors, Paul Stirling will hold the key. He has 112 runs at a strike-rate of 180.64. Kevin O’Brien got 48 in the opening game and is in good form. In fact, the pair of Stirling and O’Brien managed 154 runs off 75 balls in Grenada in cricket prediction. The form of the remaining Irish batters is a bit of a concern. In bowling, Joshua Little and Craig Young have economy rates in the sevens and a lot will depend on them.
Probable XI
Paul Stirling, Kevin O’Brien, Andre Balbirnie (C), Gareth Delany, Harry Tector, Gary Wilson (wk), George Dockrell, Simi Singh, Barry McCarthy, Joshua Little, Craig Young
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