The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Taylor

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Jul 02, 2006

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Sport - Cricket

Taylor — the wrecker-in-chief

Special Correspondent

Kingston: The West Indies quick bowler Jerome Taylor was skipper Brian Lara's wrecking ball on the first day of the fourth Test here at Sabina Park. While the other Caribbean fast-medium bowlers kept it tight, Taylor was the only one on view to produce genuinely unplayable deliveries.

The 22-year-old — in front of his home crowd — claimed his first five-wicket haul on Friday with a performance of pace, swing, cut, and lift. "My line and length were impeccable," said the slim, athletically built Taylor. "I had more control over what I was doing. To be honest, the pitch was offering assistance, and it was important not to waste the new ball. So, I bowled a fuller length."

Mentor's role

Taylor thanked fellow seamer Corey Collymore for the support the older man has provided.

Collymore has assumed a mentor's role in the development of the young quicks, keeping track of their fitness and bowling. "Corey has always been there for me. He's always helped me technically. We get together and discuss any flaws that may have crept in."

Brian Lara was impressed with his charge: "He's an outstanding youngster. I thought very highly of him when I first saw him against Sri Lanka. Though his figures aren't very impressive, he has great talent. Unfortunately he had an injury. But, he showed today what an excellent fast-bowling prospect he is."

Rahul Dravid — who made 81, an effort he placed alongside his "70 at Wellington on a first day track" in terms of overcoming tough conditions — commended Taylor's effort. "He has improved as the series has progressed. He bowled quick, he bowled in the right areas. It's nice to see the West Indies have a young fast-bowling talent coming through."

Taylor's five for 50 helped Lara get away with playing a bowler short. Whether this shortage will hinder the skipper as the Test progresses will make interesting viewing.

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