West Indies favoured

Press, 12 July 1984, Page 44

West Indies favoured

NZPA-Reuter London When Gordon Greenidge stood on the Lord’s pavilion balcony being acclaimed as the final-day hero of West Indies’ memorable win over England last week, he was cautious about the prospects of a further triumph in the third cricket test. The Barbadian opener, who inspired a nine-wicket triumph in the second Test to put West Indies 2-0 up in the series with a magnificent 214 not out, said it was an unpredictable game, implying England might yet upset the odds. Greenidge’s comment was characteristic of his nature as a generous opponent but, in truth, England must turn the form book inside out to stop West Indies seizing a winning 3-0 lead in the third of the five tests, starting in Leeds today. David Gower’s side, overwhelmed by an innings and 180 runs in the first Test and beaten at Lord’s after setting a target of 342 in 330 minutes, will surely go to Headingley wondering what the irresistible West Indians will produce next. The selectors have retained the all-rounder, Derek Pringle, although he bowled without conviction at Lord’s, and recalled the left arm spinner Nick Cook, who was dropped after emerging from England’s first Test mauling with one for 127. Bowlers of the medium and fast medium variety generally flourish at Headingley where any cloud cover always aids swing and there is usually movement off the pitch — factors which mean the in-form Paul Allott is likely to be included ahead of the faster Norman Cowans.

The final composition of Lloyd’s side will depend on late fitness tests for fast bowlers Malcolm Marshall, who has a strained side, and Michael Holding, out of action since the first Test with a stress fracture in his foot.