West Indies cricket is riddled with controversies of all sorts. But Jason Holder is a young man who is regarded as a potential long-term solution to their problems, both on and off the field. Just 23, he has been entrusted with the one-day leadership of a region that ruled world cricket for many years.

A promising fast bowler, Holder is seen a future West Indies all-rounder as well. In the limited time he had led the region, he has come across as a thorough gentleman who will win many friends in the years to come.

KEVIN O’BRIEN

Ireland are may be just an Associate member of the ICC but in KEVIN O’BRIEN they have a player who already owns a World Cup record.

On a balmy March 2011 evening in Bangalore, Ireland were down and out at 111-5 in pursuit of England’s 327. He not only changed the complexion of the match to set up a memorable Irish win but also lashed the quickest Cup century by striking six massive sixes in a 50-ball knock.

He was also part of the Ireland side which stunned Pakistan on St Patrick’s Day during the 2007 World Cup pool game in Kingston.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Virat Kohli

“I want to wrap up this ground and take it home. This has been a really special ground for me.”—Virat Kohli on his love affair with the Adelaide Oval where his 107 against Pakistan was his fourth century in five matches in both formats of the game at the picturesque venue.

STAT OF THE DAY

0-6— Pakistan’s record against India at the World Cup, losing all six times they have faced their arch-rivals at cricket’s showpiece tournament. India’s victory on Sunday also followed a trend — they had won the toss in four of their previous five World Cup meetings, and Pakistan struggled in pursuit of a target.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play