West Indies will bite India: Gibson

Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) West Indies may be the underdogs compared to a higher- ranked India, but coach Otis Gibson Saturday warned the rivals of “giving a strong bite” in the upcoming two Test series, that would also be a farewell for Sachin Tendulkar, beginning here Nov 6.

“Playing away from home against a higher ranked India, of course we are the underdogs. But we have a very good blend of experience and young talent coupled with good team spirit. Often it’s the underdogs who come up with a strong bite. Probably we are going to show that,” Gibson said.

The Caribbean side played a three-day warm-up game, which ended in a draw, against Uttar Pradesh at the Jadavpur University Ground here. Though Gibson admitted that his bowlers were “not as piercing” in the match, he said the inclusion of spinner Shane Shillingford and pacer Kemar Roach would add bite to the bowling attack.

“We all know the capabilities of Shillingford and Roach. Unfortunately they could not play due to injury. Their inclusion will surely enhance our bowling. While the bowlers could have done better, considering the slow nature of the pitch, we feel the bowlers did a good job,” said Gibson.

Gibson also expressed satisfaction with his team.

“The pitch here was slow and low and probably the Eden track would be similar. We are happy that both our bowlers and batsmen got a good run in the middle which will help them get accustomed to the conditions,” added Gibson.