Kolkata, February 28 Despite Varun Chakravarthy's struggles in the last two matches, he remains the world's No. 1 bowler in T20 cricket, according to West Indies head coach Daren Sammy, ahead of their virtual quarterfinal against India in the T20 World Cup at Eden Gardens on Sunday.
Chakravarthy conceded 47 runs in his four overs against South Africa, with Dewald Brevis and David Miller putting up a strong assault. He also faced challenges against Zimbabwe in India's last Super Eights match.
However, Sammy emphasized that a couple of off days don't diminish Chakravarthy's status as the top bowler.
"As far as I know, he was the number one bowler in T20 cricket. We respect every opponent," Sammy said during the pre-match media interaction on Saturday.
"Do we have plans for each bowler, and vice versa? Yes. We aim for a complete game. Our team has quality players who can win matches, just like we do. And it's a battle of who can execute best with bat and ball. I expect it to be an exciting game."
"And that's what we're focusing on. How we can gain an advantage against all the opponents and play effectively to secure a victory tomorrow."
India remains the biggest hurdle for West Indies in their quest for another title, a challenge that has persisted for 10 years.
In 2016, they also had to overcome hosts India in Mumbai, although it was during the semifinals at Wankhede.
This time, the obstacle has arrived in their final Super Eights clash, effectively a knockout, where the winners will secure a semifinal spot against England at Wankhede on March 5.
"A massive, massive occasion"
Sammy described the match as "massive, massive" as they prepare for an estimated 80,000-strong crowd at Eden and the support of 1.4 billion Indian fans, hoping that West Indies will "perform at their best."
"But I understand the significance of this game. It's a knockout. Winning means going through, and losing means thinking about what could have been."
"It will be a massive celebration for us if we can reach the semifinals."
When asked if they have a special celebration song, he said: "I'm not sure about any specific song, but we do have our rituals when we win. I still don't know the words, but I'm enjoying it."
Sammy expressed his anticipation for the moment when the bell rings at 7 pm on Sunday, hoping that West Indies can achieve their first semifinals in 10 years.
"We haven't been in a semifinal in 10 years, so that would be a significant achievement for the team. But it also means that our mission is still possible. I'm eagerly awaiting the moment."
Ahead of the tournament opener against Scotland, Sammy had compared facing India to a David versus Goliath battle. He reiterated this sentiment.
"I still believe that to win this tournament, you have to beat India at some point. Tomorrow is that day for us, and we need to play a good game of cricket to secure a victory. I'm excited about the contest."
"I'm confident that there will be 80,000 people here tomorrow, along with the support of 1.4 billion Indians. So, it will still feel like a David versus Goliath showdown. But as I said in 2016, David beat Goliath. That's what I'll tell my players tomorrow."
"Of course, every time we come to Eden Gardens, it brings back good memories. I love being here. But I can tell you all my players, be ready for battle tomorrow when we call upon them."
West Indies has been consistent in the tournament, winning all their group matches and one in the Super Eights. However, their previous match against South Africa ended in an 83/7 collapse, with Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd stitching an 89-run partnership off 57 balls to take them to 176/8.
Sammy said, "Even though South Africa won in Ahmedabad, just like in 2016, it was Afghanistan who beat us... I think we sent a stronger message about our batting strength."
"We lost that game in Ahmedabad, and our focus has been solely on what we need to do tomorrow against a strong Indian team. I can assure you that we didn't aim for 83/7. But every batsman and player has a role in the team. I am confident that we can reach that score, which was 176/8."
"So, the roles don't change. I would prefer better execution. And, again, tomorrow is not the same wicket as in Ahmedabad."
Hetmyer's transformation
Shimron Hetmyer has been a revelation for the two-time former champions, excelling in his role at No. 3.
Attributing this change to his mindset and maturity, he said: "I think it's about his mindset. Without revealing too much, I've seen him as the most relaxed and focused player in the West Indies dressing room since I've been around."
"He's enjoying the game. The responsibility he's taken on, it has given us a boost and sends positive messages to the dressing room when he's batting."
"Hopefully, he has another great innings tomorrow. But as we've shown throughout the tournament, we don't rely on one player. Hopefully, the all-around game we're looking for, will come to life tomorrow," Sammy concluded.
