Nicholas Pooran credited “sacrifice and hard work” as pivotal to his success after surpassing Chris Gayle to become the leading T20 run-scorer for the West Indies. The 28-year-old Trinidadian star achieved this feat by scoring 98 runs in the team’s decisive 104-run victory over Afghanistan in the final group stage match of the World Cup on Monday. Pooran’s scintillating performance not only helped him surpass the 2,000-run mark in T20 internationals but also saw him break Gayle’s record for the most sixes by a West Indies batsman in the format, bringing his tally to 128 sixes, eclipsing Gayle’s 124.
“I’m just really happy that I can continue what he left. He obviously set the platform for us,” Pooran said, acknowledging the immense influence of Gayle on West Indies cricket. “He’s the definition of batting in T20 cricket. And I’m just really happy that I can continue to entertain people and take over where he has left.” Pooran’s journey in the current World Cup has been challenging. Before his explosive innings against Afghanistan, he struggled to find form on the slow and low pitches, scoring 17 against New Zealand, 22 against Uganda, and 27 facing Papua New Guinea in the earlier group games.
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This World Cup’s ups and downs mirror Pooran’s career, marked by resilience and perseverance. After showcasing his potential at the 2014 Under-19 World Cup, a severe car accident sidelined him for a significant period. He returned to cricket, making a name for himself in various franchise leagues before cementing his place in international cricket during the 2019 50-over World Cup with a stellar 118 against Sri Lanka. Pooran’s career faced turbulence again in 2019 when he received a four-game ban for ball-tampering. However, by 2022, he had redeemed himself and was named the T20 squad captain for the World Cup in Australia. Despite stepping down from the captaincy after a disappointing campaign, Pooran’s form has remained crucial to the team’s success.
“It’s a proud feeling. I’ve worked hard throughout my career,” Pooran said. “I’ve sacrificed a lot, so I want to be the best version of myself. What has happened now is only because of my hard work and belief in myself.” Looking ahead, Pooran is set to play a critical role as the West Indies aim for their third T20 World Cup title. The team kicks off their Super Eights campaign against defending champions England on Wednesday in Saint Lucia, followed by matches against the United States in Barbados on Friday, and South Africa in Antigua on Sunday. The World Cup final is scheduled for June 29 in Barbados.
“I’ve worked extremely hard on my craft, batting in different positions, and at the end of the day, I’m a complete team guy. Whatever they require from me, I want to do it,” added Pooran, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success. As the West Indies advance in the tournament, fans will be looking to Pooran to continue his exceptional form and lead the team to glory, embodying the legacy of Chris Gayle and setting new standards for future generations.
Source Agencies
