'It's going to be Gayle's World Cup' - Sammy

West Indies expect opener Chris Gayle to be at his destructive best in the World Cup after he gave glimpses of returning to top form in the warm-up match against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.

Gayle raced to 58 off 38 balls, crashing eight fours and a six to set up West Indies' total of 281.

"As I have said it before and I say it again this year it's going to be Chris Gayle's World Cup," West Indies captain Darren Sammy said. "We know how destructive he could be and how tough he could be at the top of the order. We just saw a glimpse of that today. I am sure he will come good in this World Cup."

Despite running up an impressive total, West Indies failed to defend it successfully under lights due to some poor fielding and catching.

"Obviously catches win matches and we all know that. We are working hard towards making the best of the opportunities in the field. We all know how crucial it would be in the World Cup, so we are trying hard on improving ourselves when it comes to catching," Sammy said.

West Indies have been in Sri Lanka for nearly a month getting used to the subcontinent pitches and conditions in preparation for the World Cup. Prior to the warm-ups, they played a three-match ODI series here. "The conditions here have been very good. We got to play two practice games and our preparations have been very useful. Now it's up to us to put the preparations into play," Sammy said.

"I have been maintaining that this tournament is the best possible opportunity for everyone in the squad. I am sure by the time the World Cup starts, we will have our best possible combination in place."

West Indies open their World Cup campaign, taking on South Africa on February 24 in Delhi.