West Indies v New Zealand, 1st ODI, Kingston

'Very comfortable using the new ball' - Russell

ESPNcricinfo staff

July 6, 2012

Comments: 3 | Text size: A | A

Andre Russell picked up a four-for, West Indies v New Zealand, 1st ODI, Kingston, July 5, 2012
Andre Russell: "I decided to run in with purpose, hit the deck hard and look for wickets." © WICB
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Andre Russell, the West Indies quick, has said opening the bowling for his team suits him. Russell set up West Indies' huge win in the first ODI against New Zealand in Kingston, striking with his first ball and carving up the visitors' top order with a three-wicket opening spell.

"I am very comfortable using the new ball," Russell said after the match. "I look forward to the opportunity. But we have a good balance in the team, anyone can start the attack; we have several options when it comes to the new ball. So it is all about what the team requires at that time.

"To bowl first at Sabina Park, I knew I would get assistance from whatever moisture was in the surface. I decided to run in with purpose, hit the deck hard and look for wickets. Before the match we said wickets with the new ball would be vital and my focus was on getting it right from the very start."

Russell, who returned to pick up another wicket and complete the fourth four-wicket haul of his 23-match ODI career, is coming off a short injury lay-off. He had hurt his shoulder during West Indies' first one-dayer against England in mid-June, and missed the rest of that series. He did not play the Twenty20 series against New Zealand in Florida either.

He was happy to hit stride right away, Russell said. "It was good to come back into the team after I missed the Twenty20 series in Florida and make an impression right away.

"After I came back from England I came here, did my homework, spent some time with my family, regrouped and got ready for this series. I came out today and wanted to do it for my home crowd. I will have another rethink and come back ready for business on Saturday."

© ESPN EMEA Ltd.

Posted by kentjones on (July 6, 2012, 11:46 GMT)

I have been one of those who rooted for Andre Russell in the WI team. He must play in ALL formats of the game. He is a sharp incisive bowler, who uses his bowling skills intelligently and always run in with purpose and enthusiasm and subsequently asks the batsmen probing questions that they invariably find difficulty in answering.. He is also a skilful batsman, one who understands the importance of his wicket and his batting to the side, and is willing to explore all possibilities whilst at the crease to contribute as a batter. He has also set high standards for himself in the field and adds significantly to the team in this area. Once he can stay fit he will be an integral member of this WI side for many years. I expect great things from this young man!

Posted by SNIFFLEATHER on (July 6, 2012, 9:06 GMT)

Whilst I agree that Russell is a promising player, I wouldn't go as far as to say that he is destined for greatness just yet. I would love to see him develop into a fine test player, but I fear due to the current crop of West Indian all-rounders, such as Sammy, Dwayne Bravo, Pollard and Russell, that he may well end up playing far too much one day cricket and not gain enough exposure to the longer format of the game, which is the real mark of greatness. He is however, a joy to watch in the field, an exciting batsman and a lively bowler. One hopes that he, along with the other fine young bowling prospects currenly in the set up (Narine, Bishoo, Roach, Delorn Johnson, Jason Holder, Kevin McLean etc) are well managed and coached, thus providing West Indies with a talented and varied attack for many years to come.

Posted by RyanHarrisGreatCricketer on (July 6, 2012, 7:40 GMT)

Andre Russell is going to be the next legendary allrounder of world cricket. Very energetic bowler , skilllful batsman and bustling fielder. Above all , its all in the eyes. Should play test cricket for wi at no7

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