T20 World Cup: Romario Shepherd available for West Indies-Zimbabwe clash
What's the story
West Indies cricket team is likely to welcome back all-rounder Romario Shepherd in their 206 ICC T20 World Cup Super Eight match against Zimbabwe on Monday. The news comes from head coach Daren Sammy, who said "everybody is available for selection." Shepherd, who has been out of action for a week, had a strong training session on Saturday and could add some muscle to the West Indies batting line-up.
Training highlights
Impressive training session
Despite being on the sidelines for a week, Shepherd impressed everyone with his performance at the Wankhede Stadium nets. With strapping from his knee to calf, he was still able to hit balls over the stadium roof. His teammates welcomed him back with cheers after he hit a shot that cleared the ground - a front-foot swat over long-on.
Team morale
Coach Sammy upbeat about team's prospects
Sammy expressed his confidence in the team's readiness for the Super Eight stage. He said, "He practiced well yesterday," referring to Shepherd's performance at training. "Bowled quite well, you know, hit the ball very, very cleanly." The coach is pleased to have all players available for selection as they head into this crucial phase of the tournament.
Player update
Shepherd's return boosts West Indies
Shepherd had a stellar outing against Scotland earlier in the tournament, taking a five-for including a hat-trick. However, he hasn't played since February 11. Despite this, his return to training on Sunday was promising as he bowled off his usual run-up with little to no discomfort. This is a positive sign for West Indies ahead of their match against Zimbabwe.
Historical context
West Indies vs Zimbabwe - head-to-head in T20Is
West Indies have played four T20Is against Zimbabwe, winning three of them. The only loss came 16 years ago when the visitors managed to defend a total of 105 in Port-of-Spain. Sammy was part of that match and now, as the head coach, he will be hoping for a different outcome this time around. Meanwhile, WI will enter the Super 8 stage, with wins in each of their four group-stage matches.