Chris Gayle threat looms over New Zealand ahead of the limited-overs series

As the limited-overs series between West Indies and New Zealand commences on Wednesday, a lot of Caribbean hopes would be gelled with Chris Gayle. The visitors were whitewashed 2-0 in the traditional format earlier in the tour. They would be looking to create a turnaround heading into the One-Day International series given their clear inclination towards the shorter formats.

On the other hand, Gayle has been in a purple patch. The Universe Boss slammed a magnificent knock worth 146 (69)* in the final of the Bangladesh Premier League. Following which the 38-year-old even went to the extent of naming himself the greatest batsman of all time in an interview.

World-class batter

Kiwi pacer Lockie Ferguson was aware of the threat the Jamaican posed at the top of the order. However, he felt that Gayle may take time to adjust to local conditions in the opening ODI at Whangarei’s Cobham Oval. He also mentioned that the duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult would be looking to create an impact early in the innings.

“Of course, if he gets going then he’s one of those world-class batters who can go a long time and score lots of runs. Our opening bowlers are extremely good at swinging the ball, so I think there’s definitely a challenge for him there,” Ferguson told Radio Sport.

The West Indies currently don’t even feature in the top 8 rankings. Hence, they’ll be looking forward to proving a point that they’re much better than this. The trio of Marlon Samuels, Sunil Ambris and Alzarri Joseph have all been ruled out due to injuries. As for the Black Caps, Martin Guptill and Colin de Grandhomme will be out of action.

Kane Williamson and Tim Southee are expected to be rested after playing the first game. Here are the squads of both the teams mentioned below:

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (capt, first ODI only), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (capt, second and third ODIs), Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Henry Nicholls, Tim Southee (first ODI only), Ross Taylor, George Worker, Neil Broom (second and third ODIs), Mitchell Santner (second and third ODIs)

West Indies: Jason Holder (capt), Jason Mohammed, Shimron Hetmyer, Ronsford Beaton, Shannon Gabriel, Chris Gayle, Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Sheldon Cottrell, Evin Lewis, Nikita Miller, Ashley Nurse, Rovman Powell, Chadwick Walton, Kesrick Williams