WI has a clear plan of how to approach ODIs: Pollard

“We have a huge game coming up. The ODI series is more important right now than the World T20 which is about 10 months away,” insisted Pollard in the pre-match presser. “As I speak, we are more focussed on the job that is in our hand – the first fixture of the three-match series,” he added.

Since the 50-over WC in England and Wales in June-July, the West Indies has been involved in only two ODI assignments – one a thrashing and another a whitewash. After bowing down 0-2 to India in August, the ‘Men in Maroon’ mercilessly marauded Afghanistan 3-0 in November.

Bracing himself for a tough 50-over series against India, Pollard observed the West Indies is taking baby steps towards a bigger goal. “Our team is on a mission and has a clear plan of how to approach this format. There is a process and it is something we are actually going through. The results might not show straight away,” he told reporters.

Having missed out on the T20 trophy in the recently concluded series, the away side will get a second bite at the cherry, in the limited overs format. But the visiting skipper called for patience, despite boasting of a “really exciting” bunch of players at his disposal. “We had a good series against Afghanistan. WI wants to continue on the same track. But this time around, we are up against a better team in India.”

While agreeing that there is a plethora of talent in the squad, Pollard remarked only a complete team effort could translate potential into performance. “It’s not only about the players and the support staff, but also about the people who sit in the offices back home. I am sure there are a lot of them backing us. Hopefully, we will put things together soon,” he aspired.

For the West Indies to turn into a complete unit in the future, it will require someone like Roston Chase, who could be the glue that holds the diversified side. A conventional off-spinner and street-smart operator with the bat, Chase had an exceptional outing against Afghanistan, making 145 runs and bagging six wickets.

Terming the 27-year-old as an “asset”, Pollard felt he brings good balance to the side. “He is someone who bats in the middle order in Tests and ODIs. He can bowl as well. With him in the team, it gives us an opportunity to field another specialist player. He has been very valuable for us. He is sort of a left-field selection, but I think that has worked for us. He will play a key part going forward.”