West Indies Underplay Gayle and Russell Injury Concerns

Chris Gayle is managing a longstanding back complaint that appeared to flare up toward the end of his innings of 50.

West Indies’ Chris Gayle kneels at the crease during Cricket World Cup match against Pakistan at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. 

(Photo: AP)

West Indies have eased any injury concerns over star players Andre Russell and Chris Gayle, who came off the field in apparent pain during the seven-wicket win over Pakistan in Nottingham on Friday, 31 May.

Captain Jason Holder said he expects both players to be fit for the West Indies' next game, against Australia back at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

The 39-year-old Gayle is managing a longstanding back complaint that appeared to flare up toward the end of his innings of 50.

Russell who has been suffering from injuries throughout his career came off near the end of Pakistan’s innings of 105 all out after aggravating a left knee problem when fielding.

Russell picked up two wickets against Pakistan. (Photo: AP)

He said after the game he was "not worried" and that he came off only because West Indies was in such a good.

Earlier in the game, a combined effort from the Windies bowlers, saw Pakistan being bowled out for 105, their second-lowest world cup total ever.

While, Oshane Thomas picked up four wickets, Russell chipped in with two and Windies skipper Jason Holder picked up three wickets.

Windies courtesy this win got off to a rollicking start while Pakistan have a few problems to address before their second game against Australia on Thursday, 6 June in Nottingham.

Pakistan, on the other hand, play their second game against England on 3 June in Nottingham as well.