ST JOHN’S – West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo believes his side’s triumph in the opening One-Day International (ODI) against England was fitting, since it helped to celebrate the knighthoods of three legendary players.
Outstanding former West Indies fast bowlers Andy Roberts and Curtly Ambrose, along with former captain and current Windies team manager Richie Richardson, received the honour on Friday from Antigua and Barbuda Governor General Dame Louise Lake-Tack.
The ceremony took place during the interval of the game at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
“It is always good to see the legends around and it inspires all of us,” Bravo said after the Windies pulled off a surprising 15-run victory.
“A few days ago we saw the unveiling of the statue for Sir Vivian Richards and today we saw the knighthoods for the three legends. I am very happy that on this special day we made it extra special with a West Indies win.”
The eventual result never looked on the cards when West Indies plunged to 45 for four in the 16th over after being sent in. However, Bravo (87 not out) anchored two century-stands – 108 for the fifth wicket with Lendl Simmons (65) and 116 for the sixth wicket with Darren Sammy (61) – to propel the home side to a competitive 269 for six.
Again, the Windies appeared out of it when England cruised to 96 without loss with opener Michael Lumb (106) stroking a century on ODI debut. But off-spinner Sunil Narine (2-36) led the way as the Windies bowlers strangled England’s middle order, forcing a collapse.
