Expectations run high in Windies camp

Elmo Rodrigopulle from the West Indies

Chrys Gayle the West Indies captain exuded confidence saying that his side could beat Sri Lanka in the two Test Digicel series which bowls off on Saturday at the National Stadium.

Speaking to the media after his team arrived in Guyana, Gayle said his team was aware of the task ahead and they have high respect for the Sri Lankans and their target is winning the two Tests and also the one-day series.

Gayle also said that he was happy with the balance of his team and is confident that his players have the ability to silence the Sri Lankans.

'The expectations are very high. We have a very balanced side and looking forward to this series in a big way.

We believe we can match up to the Lankans and come out as the better side. "Sri Lanka has a very good bowling side, experienced batsmen and are a good side. But we believe in our ability we will launch and all out attack," said a cheerful and confident looking Windies captain.

Gayle further said that his team has several new faces and it presented the opportunity for his players to show their skills in international cricket.

Gayle was referring to allrounder Ryan Hinds who is making a return to the team, left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn, off spinner Amit Jaggernauth and left handed opener Sewnarine Chattergoon.

The captain said that his players have been excelling in the Carib Beer Series and that this is the chance to carry that form into the Test series. "We support them and welcome them to the team," said Gayle.

Coach John Dyson now with the West Indies, knows the Sri Lankan style of play having been their coach and team manager Omar Khan expressed their expectations and said that the tour was a new era in Caribbean cricket. Khan said that he was looking forward to working with the team with everything getting together.

Before the West Indies squad arrived there was a bit of uncertainty about contractual arrangements. But everything was sorted out and it was a happy and confident squad that arrived in Guyana to front up to the Lankans.

The weather here is similar to what it is in Sri Lanka. At the time of writing it is a bit warm and it should be to the liking of the Lankans.