An account has been given by England’s wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow about England’s cricket team and its new assistant coach Kieron Pollard. Pollard joined the England coaching staff at the end of the previous year when he was tasked with being part of a team for T20 World Cup, which is underway. With all of their group-stage games set to be played in the Caribbean, his great knowledge and feel for local conditions are likely to stand them in good stead as they aim to keep hold of their crown.
Bairstow lauded Pollard, emphasizing the former West Indies all-rounder’s vast experience, deep understanding of the game, and his inherent winning mindset.
He said that Pollard’s invaluable contributions to the squad come from his extensive knowledge in cricket combined with his world-wide success particularly on pitches reminiscent of West Indies’. Commenting ahead of yesterday’s match against South Africa in Cape Town, Bairstow observed: “I don’t think any needs much explanation when it comes to Polly. He’s got a wealth of experience; he’s got a wealth of knowledge; he’s got an attitude for winning; and he has won all over the world because he grew up in these conditions. So I think that wealth of knowledge but also that mentality that wants to win is something that cannot be replaced.”
In T20 cricket, Pollard is not just another player having featured in more than 600 matches including playing a key role in West Indies’ victory at 2012 Men’s T20 World Cup.
“He’ll have everyone going to him I reckon,” Bairstow told reporters during a press conference before Sunday night’s opening match against Australia at Cape Town. “That’s why he’s here – I’ve mentioned this before – so there doesn’t really need explaining too much anymore. This guy has done probably more than 99 per cent people ever have done in T20 cricket in the world. So I think his numbers speak for themselves.”
He is there to create a winning mentality within England’s team not only as far as strategy and planning are concerned. Bairstow’s remarks emphasize how highly regarded Pollard is by his teammates and others in the cricketing community, with regard to how he would shape England’s destiny at home.
Jos Buttler captained England when their first match against Scotland was washed out due to rain. Their next game will be against Australia, one of their fiercest rivals since time immemorial. The involvement of Pollard is seen as very significant towards England’s potential success in this tournament given the challenging conditions and high stakes involved.
