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We'll look to upset big teams: Gayle

Source:PTI
February 10, 2011 14:12 IST

Self-proclaimed underdogs, the West Indies would aim to upset bigger teams and reach at least the quarterfinals to restore some lost pride, say the side's explosive batsman Chris Gayle and newly-appointed captain Darren Sammy.

The 31-year-old Gayle said the event starting February 19 would probably be his last World Cup and he would try to ensure that the two-time champions have a good campaign. 

"We want to get the record straight this time. There are a lot of expectations from people back home. We want to go all out for them. This is my third World Cup. I'm treating it like my final Cup," Gayle said. 

"The West Indies have a legacy of winning and I want to give my best to win matches for us," added Gayle ahead of their first warm-up match against Kenya on Saturday. 

The West Indies won the World Cups in 1975 and 1979 but have been struggling with poor form, injuries and a long-standing contract disputes with the Board. 

"We go in as the underdogs. But we want to be the team that upsets biggies and the one that gets through to the quarter-finals," Gayle said. 

Gayle, in fact, lost his captaincy after refusing to sign the central contract over a pay dispute. 

Sammy was handed the captaincy in his place and the new skipper said he is confident of reviving the Windies' fortunes. 

"Yes, we have had some difficult times these past few months, but its behind us. The seniors and the juniors in the team are united to win games in this tournament," he said. 

"We are a bit fresher than other teams I suppose, having spent more time indoors than on the field. This is my first World Cup and like many other young people in my team I am excited to have the chance to restore our cricket legacy," he said," he added.

Source: PTI
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