WI rope in Atkinson for home advantage

Lara's cry was partially met with renowned curator being flown in to prepare lively track.

West Indian captain Brian Lara's cry for home advantage was partially met with renowned curator Andy Atkinson being flown in to help prepare a lively track for the third cricket Test starting here next Thursday.

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"Well, this one wouldn't have too much of grass but there would be plenty of life otherwise," said Atkinson, pitch consultant of International Cricket Council.

Atkinson is believed to have responded to the call of Ricky Skeritt, presently Sports Minister of this island but who has been manager of West Indies cricket teams in the past.

Lara had made two pleas after the drawn second Test in St. Lucia and they were specific -- he wanted fast bowlers in the squad and he preferred a lively track to put Indian batsmen in discomfort.

While no help has been forthcoming from selectors in terms of introducing a fast bowler in the squad, Lara could look forward to a promising pitch at least.

"The trouble is, captains request for a lively wicket but the moment the ball starts flying around their ears, they go out and slam curators," remarked Atkinson who has prepared 18 pitches, 15 of which have produced a positive outcome.

Atkinson's value is best underlined in what he dished out for Pakistan Cricket Board when the Indians went there for a three-Test series in 2004. MORE