West Indies have conquered stage fright, says Lara by AFP

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Scorecard:	West Indies v Pakistan
Event:	ICC World Cup 2006/07

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DateLine: 14th March 2007

 

West Indies captain Brian Lara believes his team has conquered the stage fright which threatened to cripple their campaign to become the first host nation to win the World Cup.

 

Before a capacity crowd at the renovated Sabina Park, West Indies won the first ever World Cup match held in the Caribbean when they dismissed Pakistan for 187 in 47.2 overs to clinch a 54-run victory on Tuesday.

 

It was a huge comeback for the home side following their dismal performance in their final warm-up match against India four days ago when they were bowled out for just 85 and were beaten by nine wickets.

 

"You have to be out there to really understand what it's like, since it's probably the biggest crowd at Sabina Park watching the West Indies play, and it's the opening of the World Cup," said the skipper who is playing in his fourth and final World Cup.

 

"It was a tremendous atmosphere, and as soon as we got on the field, we saw the camaraderie and the togetherness which was excellent.

 

"I thought in the batting department we looked a bit more nervous, and a little bit more aware of our surroundings that this was the opening match of the World Cup, but once we got onto the field for the second half of the match, the guys looked very professional."

 

Tuesday's victory was set up by Marlon Samuels's top score of 63 and Dwayne Smith's blistering 32 off just 15 balls.

 

Smith took the man-of-the-match honours for his batting as well as his bowling return of 3-36. Fellow youngster Dwayne Bravo claimed 3-42.

 

"A lot of people have looked at the negatives, but I think over the last year to 18 months the guys have worked really hard to improve their game," added Lara.

 

"In the DLF Cup in Malaysia, and in the ICC Champions Trophy in India last year, we got pretty far for a team from whom not much was expected.

 

"That has a lot to do with what's been happening indoors. The spirit is good. The feeling is good. We have been building up for this tournament, and we are not going to break down at this time.

 

"This is time for us to ensure that everything is at the right level, and we are looking forward to the remainder of the tournament."

 

The West Indies next face Zimbabwe on Monday before concluding their first round Group D programme against Ireland on March 23.

(Article: Copyright © 2007 AFP)