Blackwood wants ‘impactful’ recall

West Indies Test vice-captain Jermaine Blackwood wants his recall for the three-match CG United One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand to be impactful.

Blackwood states that his preparations were being centred around the upcoming Caribbean League (CPL) season, in which he is expected to feature for the Guyana Amazon Warriors. His focus will have to shift to the ODIs.

"I was in Guyana preparing for the CPL and I got a call from the chairman of selectors (Desmond Haynes) that I got selected for the ODI team, I was over the moon.

"I was just telling myself that I always wanted to come back in the team to make a difference, and now, with the opportunity, I just have to go out there and do just that," said Blackwood.

The West Indies have suffered four series sweeps in their last five ODI outings, and the experienced Blackwood is hoping that his recall will add stability to the middle order.

"I've been watching the ODI team for a while now; my job will be to rotate the strike and bat for as long as possible," he said.

The hard-hitting, 30-year-old Blackwood last represented the West Indies in ODIs back in 2015, when he played against Sri Lanka in Pallekele.

He was, however, quick to point out that his 50-over game has since developed, despite the seven-year absence.

"I haven't played regional 50-over for the last three years due to West Indies duties, but in-between that, I've scored some hundreds batting at the top of the order and also at No 3. I have the experience to bat both the new ball and the old ball in the middle as well," said Blackwood.

He referenced current ODI vice-captain Shai Hope, who shared pointers with him, including West Indies' approach to games going forward.

"I think he's sharing his knowledge and stuff with me, which is good. I haven't played for the ODI team in a while, and just to come back in the set-up now and have an experienced player like Shai Hope giving me some insight, and little things that I need to do, is very good," said Blackwood.