Two-time champions West Indies had a forgettable start to their 2021 T20 World Cup campaign. Against England, the defending champions had a terrible batting show as they were bundled out for just 55 runs in the first innings. After the poor show with the bat, the team could not produce the miracle that would have been needed to defend such a small score. Poor batting was the main reason for the performance. However, the management should also take responsibility for making a tactical mistake. Against South Africa, they will have a chance to correct this. In this article, we take a look at two changes West Indies should make for their game against South Africa on Tuesday in Dubai.
1) Roston Chase for Chris Gayle
Chris Gayle is arguably the greatest ever T20 batsman to have played the format. However, to set their campaign back on track, West Indies might have to take a brave call. Hence, one of the changes West Indies should make for their game against South Africa is to bring Roston Chase for Chris Gayle.
West Indies has an overdose of left-handers, and this could put the team in trouble when Aiden Markram and Tabraiz Shamsi start bowling for South Africa. Chase brings stability to the batting line-up ahead of Gayle, who seems to be struggling for form at the moment. The all-rounder also bowls right-arm off-spin, something that could be of use against the likes of Quinton de Kock. Hence, this change should be considered by the management.
2) Hayden Walsh for Obed McCoy
South Africa usually struggle against spin. Also, since they are under pressure, an extra spinner in the opposition could trouble them. Hence, Hayden Walsh for Obed McCoy is a change that West Indies can consider.
It is unfair to drop McCoy, who did not have the scope to put on an impressive performance against Australia. However, Ravi Rampaul is experienced, and he cannot be dropped. Hence, the left-arm seamer might have to make way. West Indies anyways has the seam options of Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell apart from Dwayne Bravo and Rampaul. Therefore, a leg-spinner for a pacer could be a change that West Indies should make.
