Fri Dec 13 05:03:12 UTC 2024: ## West Indies Calls Up Inexperienced, But Formidable, Left-Arm Pacer
**BRIDGETOWN, Barbados** – The West Indies cricket team made a bold move in their third ODI against Bangladesh, handing ODI debuts to two relatively unknown players: wicketkeeper Amir Jangoo and left-arm seamer Jediah Blades. While Jangoo’s inclusion was anticipated, Blades’ call-up was a surprise, driven by injuries to fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde.
Blades, just 22 years old and with only a little over a year of professional cricket under his belt, has quickly impressed selectors. Despite his limited experience – seven first-class and nine List A matches – Blades boasts impressive recent form. He was the joint-fourth-highest wicket-taker in the Super50 Cup, grabbing 14 wickets in five matches, including a standout 4-48 against Guyana. His performances in the West Indies’ 4-day Championship further cemented his credentials, dismissing seasoned internationals Mikyle Louis, Kieran Powell, and Keacy Carty in a match against Leeward Islands.
His left-arm pace is also a significant factor, addressing a perceived gap in the West Indies’ bowling attack. The last consistently successful left-arm pacer for the national team was Sheldon Cottrell, with other current options yet to fully establish themselves.
While Blades’ debut performance yielded five wicketless overs and 57 runs conceded, his selection highlights the West Indies’ willingness to gamble on promising young talent. His impressive recent form and the rarity of left-arm pace bowling suggest this could be the beginning of a successful international career.
First Piper 