South Africa (CMC):Captain Jason Holder believes West Indies’ triumph in Sunday’s fourth one-day international against South Africa was a reminder that the Caribbean side can compete strongly with top sides in the world.
Trailing 3-0 in the series, West Indies bounced back to beat the Proteas by one wicket at St George’s Park, after chasing down 263, with nine balls to spare.
“We have known it from the start that we have the ability to win cricket games. It’s just one or two mistakes that have cost us games – losing wickets in clusters, a dropped chance or even one or two big overs when we bowled,” said Holder.
“It’s all about putting together the complete game. Fortunately, … we were able to get over the line even though I don’t think we played the complete game in that we let it get down to number 11.
“Having said that, it’s just good to get across the line. It does a lot for our morale.”
Best Bowler
Holder was the best bowler with four for 53 as West Indies strung together a disciplined performance to limit the Proteas to 262 for eight, despite David Miller’s splendid unbeaten 130.
West Indies then fought their way out of trouble thanks to half-centuries from André Russell (64 not out), Marlon Samuels (68), and Darren Sammy (51).
“I’m obviously very pleased. It’s been a tough tour so far and we’ve already lost the series, but as I said before, it’s just about salvaging some pride, and I was just very pleased to see how the guys came out and won this game … ,” Holder pointed out.
Attitude Was Very Good
“Being 3-0 down is not a good note, but it was very fitting how the guys came out to this game and performed. They were always up for it; the attitude was very good.
“We just had a few blemishes in the field here and there, but apart from that, I thought we played a really good game of cricket.”
Holder, revelling in his first win since taking over as captain at the start of the series, admitted that there was some doubt about the result with the last pair at the wicket.
“I was worried when it was down to the last pair, obviously, but knowing the expertise of my finisher, Russell, I still had that hope, and obviously, Russell pulled it off for us.”