Indisputably, the strategy for developing the West Indies Test Cricket team should be centered on inclusiveness, accountability, and durability.
It’s baffling that Shai Hope, a talented batter, was initially dropped from the WI Test team set-up due to a dip in form. However, he has shown resilience and improved focus and deserves another chance based on his current form.
The current Windies setup lacks consistent offensive and defensive batting tactics. While some players show potential, there’s a dire need for more consistency and a fighting spirit crucial for decisive moments.
I question the efficiency of the Cricket West Indies management and selection panel in nurturing young talents. Former professionals like Brian Lara and Sir Vivian “Vivi” Richards could serve as valuable consultants, mentors, or batting coaches for emerging players.
It’s perplexing that individuals of their caliber are not actively involved. At some stage, Carl Hooper was part of the Windies One-Day technical unit working alongside Daren Sammy- the head coach, but lately it appears that Hopper is no longer in that set up.
Reintegrating players like Shai Hope and Shem Hetymyer into the current Test squad makes sense given their growth and international recognition.
Additionally, Nicholas Pooran’s stellar performance in T20I cricket cannot be overlooked. It’s evident that while the Windies bowlers have excelled, the batters have not provided sufficient support. This needs to change for a more formidable West Indies team.
On a wider scale, it’s evident that other nations build up their teams with a mix of experienced and younger players to create balance, stability, and skill development. Players like Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith have a stabilizing impact on their respective teams.
India has excelled by utilizing their players to compete across all formats, but some teams like West Indies focus on global T20 franchise cricket. However, a visiting Indian journalist in Saint Lucia during the recent hosting of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup highlighted the need for a more compact and challenging West Indies team.
“We still have respect for all greats from the West Indies, and we just wish (as Indians) that West Indian cricket should again get back to the glory (days) that they had up until the 90s… when they ruled the World,” said Patgaonkar.
More recently, he cited the record-breaking batting exploits of Brian Lara and then the Daren Sammy-led team claiming two ICC T20 championship titles as mighty conquests for the Windies.
Nimish Patgaonkar stressed the importance of sustainable reform and the development of players to elevate the team. West Indies should aim to nurture talent into a more combative unit, with accountability and strategy being crucial for player development.
The Australians have shown how this concept can develop a formidable team to challenge others.
Patgaonkar stressed that, “The legacy has to be continued, and West Indian cricket should evolve along three or four greats in the team, (be it with two batters and two bowlers) …and the rest (team) should look onward to them.”
Though they may not turn out to be as formidable as former West Indies championship teams of the 80s and 90s, yet they must aspire to nature that talent into a more combative unit.
During the recent two-test matches home series against South Africa, global commentators spoke on the resilience of the West Indies team, yet there were some glaring lapses in concentration that prevented them from exploiting the advantage they created.
After fighting to the end to save a rain affected test match in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), the Windies took the fight to Guyana. After dismissing South Africa for a meagre160 runs, West Indies fell short of the total by 16 runs to be routed for 144.
Then the bowlers were in action again, performing well to take down South Africa for less than 250 (246 all out), the West Indies failed to muster the courage to take the game over the line- with two days and more to get 263 runs, they fell short by 40 runs.
Ultimately, the Windies players need to keep a personal diary to identify strengths, weaknesses, and learn from them to better prepare for future challenges.
“Advocating for a more inclusive and stronger West Indies cricket team setup, emphasizing the need for diverse talent and strategic planning to build a formidable squad for the future. 🏏🌍 #WestIndiesCricket”