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West Indies v Australia, 4th ODI, St Kitts
Miller surprised at late call-up
Cricinfo staff
July 3, 2008
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Nikita Miller does some stretches at pratcice in St Kitts head of his possible ODI debut
© AFP
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Nikita Miller, the Jamaica left-arm spinner, had written off his chances of an international call-up for the series against Australia after he was not required for the Tests or the first three ODIs. Miller was one of three new players called into the squad for the final two games in St Kitts and is likely to make his international debut either on Friday or on Sunday.
The leading wicket-taker in West Indies' domestic first-class competition this season, Miller was discussed as a possible Test spinner during the three-match series. However, Amit Jaggernauth was preferred in the opening encounter and Sulieman Benn took the role for the third Test and the first three ODIs, before he was axed for the final matches.
"I wasn't really expecting it for the rest of the series, it came as a surprise but all in all I'm happy," Miller said of his call-up. "I was looking out for it [earlier] because I had a good season so I always kept my mind in tune for that call so that I won't be surprised. I was disappointed [not to be called up sooner] but now that I got the chance I have to take it with both hands."
Miller, 26, starred in the Carib Beer Challenge final when he picked up five wickets in each innings to help Jamaica to a nine-wicket win over Trinidad and Tobago. He has played little cricket since early May, when he faced Australia in a tour match, but he remains confident he can quickly find his line and length.
"I was preparing for the local one day series [in Jamaica], I've been doing a bit of practice at the club I play for, Melbourne," Miller said. "I have to believe in my skills, I've been able to do well at the regional level and all I have to do is believe in myself, I know I can do a good job. I'm pretty happy. I don't think my bowling can fall off in a month or so."
West Indies have already lost the five-match series but they will be aiming to avoid a whitewash in the remaining two matches. Along with Miller, the uncapped Shawn Findlay and Kemar Roach will be hoping to make their first one-day international appearances.
© Cricinfo
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