Fidel Edwards talks about his bowling action, why he loves South Africa, and gives us the lowdown on his namesake Kirk.
You got Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene out on your Test debut, and ended up with a five-for. Test cricket is easy, no?
It was the most amazing start. Laughs I couldn’t believe it. If you ask me now what happened, I can’t really tell you. All I can remember about that game was how nervous I was. I was so nervous, I felt numb. I had no feeling in my body.
Assess your West Indies career.
I would say it had its moments, but I had so many injuries that set me back. That really hampered what I set out to achieve. For the most part I think I did pretty well when I was fit. If I were to do it all again I wouldn’t change anything – apart from being a bit luckier with injuries.
What is the highlight of your career?
Taking part and helping West Indies win the World T20 in 2012. I’ll never forget the feeling. The celebrations afterwards were crazy, a massive all-nighter.
Describe your action to us.
It’s instinctive and a natural slinger’s action. It’s something I’ve had since I started playing cricket. I can’t remember ever changing it that much, just a couple of tweaks here and there. I found it quite funny when my teacher at secondary school saw me bowl and wanted me to throw the javelin. So I tried and I kept hitting the back of my head!
How would you describe your approach to batting?
I do enjoy batting – if the bowling’s not quick! I’m pretty good at defending my stumps but now I’m trying to play a few shots and express myself.
How much of an impact has Brian Lara had on your career?
He’s had the biggest impact, more than anyone else. Brian was the one who pushed for me to play my first Test and I owe him a lot.
You have played T20 cricket in England, the Caribbean, at the IPL, Big Bash and in the BPL. Which one is the best?
The IPL is top-notch and the standard is just incredible. But for the whole party atmosphere, I’ll have to go with the Caribbean.
Which ground does the best teas?
I’m a big fan of South Africa. In Centurion they do steaks and they are lovely.
Who among the West Indies boys is the most fun on a night out?
Kirk Edwards. He’s just the worst dancer. His moves are absolutely shocking. He makes a night out.
So who has got the best dance moves?
Kirk, obviously! His moves are so bad they end up being good. The guy just can’t find any rhythm. In one of his moves, he actually looks like a robot.
Who has the worst dress sense? Kirk Edwards?
(Laughs) No, we’ll let him off this one. The late Runako Morton had some pretty dodgy clothes.
Describe yourself in three words.
Quiet, soft-spoken, humble.
What is the one thing every hotel room must have?
A lot of television channels.
Which rule in cricket would you love to change?
The short-ball rule.
Two bouncers in an over, then?
No way. We should be allowed to bowl four!
Which of your team-mates – past or present – would you least like to be stuck in a lift with?
That has to be Sulieman Benn. He’s just miserable. He’d end up cussing me the whole time.
A catch goes up to win the World Cup final. Who would you want under it?
A tough one. I’ll go with either Dwayne Bravo or Kieron Pollard.
And who would you least like to see under it?
Me. Or Kirk Edwards.
You have six balls to bowl at one stump. How many times would you hit?
I reckon I’d hit twice.
Who is the most naturally talented player you have shared a dressing room with?
Andre Russell. He can bowl quick, he’s one of the best fielders around, and he can bat. The man is so gifted.
What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen happen on a cricket field?
We were playing a Test against New Zealand in 2006 when Runako Morton drove one to Daniel Vettori at mid-on. He set off, so did Shivnarine Chanderpaul, then he stopped and they both landed up at the same end.
If you were not a cricketer, what would you be?
An architect.