Last Chance to Dance

After the last two World Cups were hosted by teams which bowed out at the first stage, there wa some relief when West Indies avoided embarassment and progressed. Yet a harsh schedule and bad weather, which saw them play cricket on three consecutive days last week, has them fighting to survive in the match against Sri Lanka today. Lose, and it's goodnight for the team, the captain and probably what little vitality remains in this ill-attended and ill-fortuned tournament.

But as much as it is a do or die for the West Indies, should they prevail, the Sri Lankans will start to look over their shoulders anxiously. Although they carried through points, they were only against Bangladesh, and a loss, more comprehensive than the Malinga-influenced scorecard suggests, against South Africa means that today's game is a must-win if they are to have smooth passage through to the semis. A win today, and another against England on Wednesday would put them in the box seat, but losing today would make the mid-week clash a crucial one for both sides.

The smart money is on Sri Lanka; they still have the most balanced bowling attack - the nous of Vaas, the pace and maverick element of Malinga and the best spin duo. If The West Indies are to pull of a shock , then inevitably it will be down to the star names, although first they need to pick the right team. Forget the extra batsman, they need Taylor and Bradshaw, their best one-day bolwer, spearheading the attack. Gayle needs to lead from the front, and it is time for Sarwan to stand up.

For the sake of the tournament, let's hope for the suprise; it's about time the Caribbean really got involved in this World Cup, and a scintillating display might just bring back the absent fans. It would also open up the semi-final competition: Australia are through, New Zealand all but and South Africa and Sri Lanka should join them, although the Windies have one last chance to make a pitch today. Should they do so, that would open it up for England, who would make it really interesting if they topple Sri Lanka in the week.