England fast bowler Reece Topley is preparing for a tough challenge as the defending champions face co-hosts West Indies in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2024. Topley acknowledges that the conditions in St Lucia, where West Indies recently scored 218 against Afghanistan, might favor the batters more.
“It’s nice to have new conditions to adapt to. I think it’s going to be a good cricket wicket,” Topley said. “So far, the wickets have been kind to bowlers, but it might be time to face a bit of medicine and adapt our strategies.”
Despite the anticipated batting-friendly pitch at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Topley sees opportunities, especially with the new ball and the swing aided by the cross-breeze. “It’s still about nullifying the opponent’s strengths. Maybe now, as a bowler, a single could be seen as a win, whereas last week we could be more aggressive,” Topley explained.
Topley also noted the difference in crowd support, with the West Indies enjoying strong home support. “We haven’t played in front of an opposition crowd for a while. Even when we toured the Caribbean in November, we had significant support from English fans,” he said.
On a personal note, Topley, whose career has been marred by injuries including multiple stress fractures of the back, is eager to make a significant impact. He missed the 2022 T20 World Cup due to an ankle injury and the ODI World Cup last year due to a broken finger.
“Injuries happen, but I’ve always done everything I could to be fit. I’m excited for this week and hope it will be a memorable and successful one that helps us achieve our goal of winning the World Cup,” Topley said.
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