'Ready and raring to go'

Wicket-keeper batsman Shai Hope has labelled the Windies "ready and raring to go" for their five-match ODI series against England, which will form a key part of both sides ICC Men's Cricket World Cup preparations. The series is set to start from February 20 at Bridgetown.

England are the No.1 MRF Tyres ranked side in ODI cricket, while the West Indies sit in ninth, but buoyed by momentum picked up in their recent 2-1 victory in the Test series, there is a real air of enthusiasm in the Windies camp.

"It's a lot to look forward to," said Hope. "It's a very exciting time, especially leading up to the World Cup so I'm sure the guys are ready and raring to go. We are just coming off a Test series win and that was fantastic for everyone involved and the fans, so it is important for us to continue in that vein and try to get the series win as well.

“We can use this as a good gauge for us going into the World Cup. We are still looking at some plans, in terms of what is the best fit and combination but it's a good challenge for us and we've got some work to do."