News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

Rediff.com  » Sports » Super Sammy shows the way for Windies

Super Sammy shows the way for Windies

Last updated on: May 01, 2010 07:41 IST
Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Darren SammyWhile all eyes were on big-hitter Kieron Pollard to set the stadium ablaze, it was Darren Sammy who led the way for the West Indies in their opening match of the T20 World Cup against Ireland on Friday.

Sammy couldn't put a foot wrong as the hosts romped to a 70-run victory to kick-start their campaign in grand style.

The Windies were on the back foot when news came in that their regular captain Chis Gayle would not be taking part in the match due to a problem with his glutes.

With stand-in skipper Dwyane Bravo winning the toss and electing to bat first, Sammy provided the much-needed momentum to the innings. He top-scored for the home side with 30 off just 17 balls, which included two boundaries and two towering sixes and then came back to bowl a brilliant spell of three for eight in his 3.4 overs.

Sammy couldn't stay off the action; he was electic on the field as well, snapping four catches.

Earlier, electing to bat first, the hosts began shakily against the modest threat of Ireland, reduced to 83-5 after 13 overs.

Ramnaresh Sarwan hit a run-a-ball 24 and the top five batsmen all crossed double figures but Ireland kept a tight rein.

For Ireland, left-arm spinner George Dockrell, the youngest player in the tournament at 17, claimed 3-16.

In reply, Ireland could not put any resistance and crumbled to 68 all out. They never got going, the pace of Ravi Rampaul (3 for 17) and Kemar Roach reducing them to 16 for four. And when Sammy (3 for 8) and Bravo (2 for 5) dealt with the middle order it was all over.

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024