Rising West Indies leg-spin bowler Afy Fletcher has credited her improved form to more time spent working on her game.
The Grenadian, a fringe player for quite a while, made the remarks following her standout performances in the team’s ongoing home series against England.
The diminutive 29-year-old has so far claimed five wickets in the series following figures of three for 20 off 10 overs and two for 21 off 10 overs in the first two games, which were played at the Trelawny Stadium.
The five-match series is level at 1-1 heading into Game Three, which will be played today at Sabina Park.
“It’s just a whole lot of hard work that has got me to this stage,” said Fletcher.
“I’ve spent a lot of time working on bowling with both my coaches back at home and with the West Indies team, and it’s good to see it paying off.”
Fletcher, who has been used as first-change bowler thus far, has also expressed satisfaction at being referred to as a “go-to” bowler by captain Stafanie Taylor.
“I see it as quite a compliment to be referred to as to a go-to player,” she said.
“I guess the captain has a lot of confidence in my abilities, and it is just for me to repay her the best way I can.
Fletcher has so far taken 21 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 19.52.
Meanwhile, looking ahead of the third game of the series, Fletcher also believes the West Indies are in a good position, having assessed what the visitors have brought to the table so far.
“The game should again be close, but we are very confident of our chances,” she said. “We are much more aware of their game and know our strengths, and if we should play to our strengths we should come out on top.”
The series is scheduled to climax with the playing of the fourth and fifth matches on Sunday and next Wednesday at Sabina Park.