Conditions key to Windies’ success: Rampaul

Dhaka, March 21 (IANS/CMC) West Indies pacer Ravi Rampaul believes smart usage of the conditions here will be key to their success in defending the ICC World Twenty20 title.

“The key is knowing the conditions, the kind of wickets you’re going to bowl on and the right variations you’re going to execute on the wicket. That will be the main thing,” the experienced seamer said.

“The conditions here are basically the same. The dew factor at night maybe a little different to what we are accustomed to but variation of the ball and execution will be key.”

West Indies will open their campaign when they take on powerhouse India Sunday. The lead up to the opener has been superb as they convincingly swept both their warm-up fixtures against England and Sri Lanka.

However, West Indies have been put in a tough Group 2 which also features Australia, Pakistan and hosts Bangladesh.

The 29-year-old Rampaul, who has played 22 Twenty20 Internationals, said there was a great mood inside the Windies camp and high belief they could retain the title they won two years ago in Sri Lanka.

“It is a good feeling to always represent West Indies in a World Cup match. This year we’re trying to retain the trophy so preparation has gone well and the team is gelling well so hopefully we can do it,” he said.

“It would mean the world to the Caribbean. People are looking to us to come here and retain our trophy. We have a good team, we’re strong so once we play together, we’ll win it.”

Rampaul is expected to lead the seam attack which includes Jamaican left-arm pair of Krishmar Santokie and Sheldon Cottrell. As the experienced member of the attack, he remains clear on his role.

“I was always picking up early wickets with the new ball and the plan remains the same — trying to take early wickets and then coming back at the end and trying to better my performance,” he stressed.