Bishop backs West Indies

Sunday, February 22, 2004

LONDON, England: Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop has backed the current side to be too good for England in the forthcoming series in the Caribbean, according to BBC Sport.

"Our batting is very steady and the only area of concern is the bowling as we have an inexperienced attack. 

"But I think England also have an inexperienced bowling attack." 

He added: "I expect a very competitive series but I expect the West Indies to come out on top and I would be very disappointed if they do not." 

England have not won a Test series in the West Indies since 1968. 

But hopes for success this time are high after Brian Lara's side were outplayed by South Africa in both Tests and one-day internationals on their recent tour. 

Bishop believes, however, that home advantage will be a major factor in the outcome. 

"We usually do very well in the Caribbean because we are accustomed to the conditions and this series should be no different," he said. 

"We are playing at home and have a greater pool of players to choose from. 

"I imagine all the players will be keen to do well to put themselves in the reckoning." 

Bishop played 13 Tests against England during his career. 

His best performance came in 1995 when he out-bowled Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh to take 27 wickets in a series in England which ended in a 2-2 draw. 

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