Blackwood-Career defining knock

When Blackwood got treatment for his eyes twice during the match, it was as if  he had gotten new vision. He was batting positively and maturely. He had put behind him the disappointment of getting caught at mid-off for 12 in the first innings. 

Blackwood innings was crucial in the middle-order. It wasn't just the 95 runs he made but the manner in which he played. He was always looking to score while resolute in defence. West Indies needs a batsman like Jermaine Blackwood constantly in the the middle order, a batsman that is not just going to deflect and play tentatively but make bowlers feel uncomfortable by hitting them off their lines. 

West Indies has enough batsmen with similar temperament, variety makes the difference. In Blackwood, West Indies has a player that is naturally aggressive and will play with freedom in all circumstances. Playing  positively and  with liberty  is essential in a chase. Blackwood was the ideal man to do the job and he delivered. Many were ready to banish him after failing in the first innings but this match winning 95 proved his unquantifiable value.

With Archer and Wood  bowling with great hostility, Blackwood displayed his great skills by staying side-on of the ball upper-cutting them repeatedly over slips. He was not intimidated and he found a way to score at all times. He drove Wood and Archer with great authority whenever the ball was full. At one point, as Blackwood drove emphatically down the ground over the leaping hands of James Anderson, Mark Wood collapsed to the floor from the sheer counter-attacking display.

Blackwood match winning 95 is a career defining knock. He was more selective and took great care in defending his wicket. He got out 5 short of his century and he would be doubly disappointed. He was dismissed the same way twice. However, this courageous knock should be a template going forward. It is now time for Blackwood to push on and enjoy a great career.

Correspondent

C.W.Forrest