ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, (Reuters) - Australia boast Glenn McGrath, Jason Gillespie and Brett Lee in a fearsome three-pronged pace attack, but it is fourth choice bowler Andy Bichel that is giving the most cause for concern for West Indies captain Brian Lara.
Bichel has dismissed Lara seven times during Australia’s tour to the Caribbean, prompting Lara to say yesterday: “Bichel is definitely a top class performer in a top class team and I have gained a lot of respect for him.’’
In the latest dismissal, in the fifth one-day international last Sunday, Bichel halted Lara’s progress when he was homing in on a rare century on his home turf at Trinidad’s Queen’s Park Oval.
Lara was on 80 and in full flight when Bichel had him swiping at successive offside deliveries, the third of which carried for a catch.
``I was in a groove. I’d seen (all the bowlers) and maybe looking to go after the ball, and carve it through the covers.
Then (Bichel) comes back and bowls wicket-taking balls,’’ Lara said.
The pair are likely to resume battle in Grenada today, when the West Indies look for a second pride-restoring victory in the seven-match series. They currently trail the tourists 4-1.
Lara believes that unwary West Indies batsmen may fall into the trap of relaxing against Bichel if they survive against Australia’s top three pace bowlers.
``I don’t think Bichel has a hold on me, but he lulls you into a false sense of security. Glenn McGrath and Jason Gillespie keep you on the defensive, and there is Brett Lee with his pace. Bichel then comes on and offers scoring opportunities, but he mixes that with wicket-taking balls,’’ Lara added.
Bichel removed Lara four times in Australia’s 3-1 test series victory, and has so far taken the West Indies most valuable wicket three times in the one-day series.
Bichel’s successful end to a hectic Australian tour follows a successful World Cup, in which the 32-year-old made a major contribution with both bat and ball.
``You have to admire players like that. He may not have the greatest ability in a world class team, but he is able to pop up in a test match and pick up six wickets or something,’’ Lara said.“
His dedication and discipline have to be top class. He’s gained a lot of respect from me over the years, but getting me out this many times has definitely sealed it.’