Spin bowler says attention to wicket details led to success

SHIMAGO, India (CMC):

Left-arm spinner Nikita Miller has credited a bowling adjustment he made, after reading the pitch, for his nine-wicket haul in West Indies A's convincing victory over India A in the opening four-day unofficial test match.

Miller had match figures of 9-101 off 71.4 overs to bowl the Windies to victory in Mysore. Including an inspired spell with the new ball in the second innings in which he picked up 5-40 off 36.4 overs to follow up his 4-61 off 35 overs.

"When I was batting I was watching the game really closely and got a good feel of how the pitch was playing. I found when the spinners bowled, it was easier to score when they bowled slowly. I took note of that and realised I had to bowl a bit quicker than normal," said Miller, who also scored a resolute 49 with the bat in the West Indies first innings.

"When you quickened up the pace, the ball came on and created problems. Some balls were standing up and some were keeping low. [The pitch] offered something for the spinners and I decided to exploit it."

After his dominance in the first innings, Miller was asked to use the new ball by skipper Kirk Edwards, when West Indies A set India 314 to win on the final day.

"I didn't expect it. In the morning the captain asked me how I felt about the new ball. I said 'anything you want me to do I will do'," said Miller.

"My idea was to keep it tight from one end and let the other bowlers attack from the other end."

The Jamaican cricketer said he was happy with his effort in the match and plans to "go back to hard work" when the second match bowls off today.

"I'm always looking to make the most of every opportunity and perform well. Things worked out really well for me in the first match so I'm pleased with my effort and my success for the team."

The second 'Test' will be played at the Jawaharlal Nehru National College of Engineering Ground.