NEWS
Follow UsWest Indies all-rounder Akeal Hosein is confident of his team winning the second ODI against India in Ahmedabad and level the three-match series. The visitors lost the first ODI by six wickets after being bundled out for 176 as India chased down the target with 22 overs to spare.
"Yes, we've lost the match and it's a short series -- three matches. Although we lost, there were still positives. It's just about how we plan to bounce back and come back strong," Hosein said ahead of the second ODI on Wednesday.
"The message is to stay positive and get ourselves in proper positions to play strong scoring shots. That's definitely something we're going to stick with, no matter the surface and condition. Once we do those things we'll be able to get through," he said.
Hosein also has an eye on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 auction on February 12 and 13 as he hopes to impress franchises with his performances in the ongoing series.
"Yes, we know, the IPL is the best league around. But I'm not really focused on that (IPL). The task at hand right now is these two games. They are very important for me, because it will determine the series," he said.
"Having said that, I think once I do the right things and perform well for my team, the doors will open. For me, it's all about these two games and winning this ODI series," he added.
The 28-year old, who was part of Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2021, heaped praise on fellow Windies spinner Sunil Narine for guiding him through the highs and lows of the sport.
"For me, having the opportunity to spend more time with him in KKR setup helped me a lot because the World Cup was played in Dubai as well," Hosein, who claimed five wickets at the T20 World Cup, said.
"It was actually the day before the game, so it was a bit worrying. But Sunil said 'don't be surprised. That's how it goes. Some days you'll feel terrible in the nets, and then the next day you will see the ball coming out of your hand perfectly in the match.'
"His advice was spot on. I didn't take it (the feeling) on too much and surprisingly in the match the ball came out beautifully," Hosein said.
Hosein described Narine and Kieron Pollard as 'big brothers' as he said their presence is a blessing for him.
"Sunil is not only a friend to me but a big brother. He's very quiet but very open at the same time. He would share almost everything with all his tricks and ideas," he said of Narine, who twice the IPL with KKR and the T20 World Cup in 2012.
"And if he thinks it's a trick that can't work and doesn't work for him, he will definitely shared with me as well.
"It's always a blessing to have these guys around. They're more than friends. I consider them big brothers and they always look out for you in any way possible. I'm very thankful."
Hosein, who has played 13 ODIs and 18 T20Is since his debut in 2021, expressed his desire to be known as a proper allrounder.
"I think I'm a 50-50 perfect proper batter, proper bowler. Having said that, over the last couple of years, I've played CPL, different formats and what not. Then you find yourself you might flex down the order if given an opportunity to bat.
"I definitely see myself as a total all-rounder and it's just about working my way up the ladder. Hopefully people can see that I am a genuine allrounder," he said.
India will take on West Indies on Wednesday in the second ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad which also host the third ODI on Friday.
(With inputs from PTI)