England vs West Indies: “Wish I had 12 Jermaine Blackwoods in the team, says Jason Holder

Jermaine Blackwood’s contribution of 95 with the bat turned around the fortunes for Jason Holder’s men as they notched up a historic 4 wicket win in Southampton.

Following the right-hander’s steely knock, West Indies skipper Jason Holder heaped praises on his team-mate, saying that he wishes he had ’12 Jermaine Blackwoods in his team.’

Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Holder said, ”Jermaine Blackwood, man. If I had 11 Jermaine Blackwoods, those are the kind of guys you want to step on to a cricket field with. These are team guys, through thick and thin,”

His remark came as Blackwood played a match-winning knock against England in the second innings of the first Test of the three-match series against England. Blackwood played a clinical knock of 95 runs as Windies chased down the total of 200 to win the first Test.

“He’s a humble team man, I know when he crosses the line he’ll give it his all. I’m not surprised by the comment he made because he is a team man. Sometimes he feels as though he can carry everybody on his shoulders. He’s that confident of a player,” he added.

While chasing 200, West Indies were in a spot of bother at 27/3, but Jermaine Blackwood and Roston Chase steadied the innings for the visitors. Jermaine Blackwood was dismissed for 95, but Jason Holder and John Campbell took Windies over the line by four wickets.

If West Indies manages a win or a draw the series against England, Jason Holder’s men will retain the Wisden Trophy. The second Test of the series is slated to be played at Old Trafford from July 16.