Black thanks his lucky stars

Marlon Black is counting his lucky stars.

The 25-year-old West Indies fast bowler yesterday admitted that the terrifying attack by four Australian thugs early Sunday morning could have cost him his life.

It has left him with physical and mental scars, but the damage is not enough to deter the strong believer in God from returning to Australia.

"It could have been a lot more dangerous. It is something that is going to stay with me for life," Black said after his arrival with other members of the West Indies team at the Grantley Adams International Airport.

"It could have been worse. I think I am lucky to be alive."

Black is a relative of former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop, and is similarly devoted to the Almighty.

"I believe in the Lord. I pray a lot and stuff like that."

Sunday's attack occurred about 4 a.m. after Black and two teammates had left the Sirens Night Club in Melbourne.

Reports indicated that he was chased by the men in a car and then beaten with a wooden bat. The attackers kicked and beat Black and he required 10 stitches to the head.

"It was something that I didn't expect. You go out a couple nights before the tour ends just to enjoy Australia because the tour was a tough tour.

"Something like this happens, but there isn't anything that you can do about it now. It has happened already."

It was Black's first trip to Australia, but the incident has not given him second thoughts about ever returning Down Under.

"I wouldn't say that, but it made me look at things differently - how you view life, how you go out and enjoy yourself and stuff like that," he said.

To add insult to injury, Black came back to the Caribbean to learn that some of his luggage had not arrived.

He left for his native Trinidad last night with the knowledge that he might have to sit out the forthcoming home series against South Africa. He could not set a date on a return to competitive cricket.

"It's a matter of dealing with the physio and seeing some doctors. I am hoping that it is as soon as possible," he said.