Marlon Samuels expects all-round role

Marlon Samuels believes he will play a full part for the West Indies in ICC World Twenty20.

The 31-year-old made his international debut in 2000 but has only become an established member of the side over the last 18 months.

Although primarily a batsman, the Jamaican’s recent form in T20Is has been far more effective as an off-spinner. With conditions likely to favour slow bowling on the sub-continent, Samuels can expect to contribute with the ball in Sri Lanka.

He said: “My role will be in every department – batting, bowling and fielding. I’m in good form with the bat. I did well in England and continued on against New Zealand. I have also been working hard in the nets and I feel ready.

“I’m always confident. I got some big scores in recent times and that also helped to boost my confidence a bit more. I feel I am on top of my game. I’ve been getting in the yorkers and I approach my bowling the same way as I have always done. I’m just trying to get the balls in the block hole and bowl as many dot balls as possible,” Samuels added.

The right-hander is in the form of his life with the bat in Test and ODI cricket having scored three international tons this year. Now he is looking to add some runs in the 20-over format during the ICC World Twenty20.

“The pitches here are not much different from those in the Caribbean – slow - so you just have to wait on the ball and play it a bit later. We have a fit team and everyone is playing together. The signs are we will do well in this tournament,” Samuels concluded.