West Indies head coach, Daren Sammy, is optimistic about his team’s progress in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, aiming for a solid finish against Bangladesh. This marks the first instance since 1994 that the Caribbean side has not lost a Test series, underscoring significant strides under Sammy’s leadership.
Reflecting on his tenure, Sammy noted, “Obviously, in the first year [of my coaching], we were finding the right balance in terms of players and roles allotted to them. I think we have settled in quite nicely.” He highlighted the efforts of opening batsmen Brandon King and John Campbell. These two achieved an impressive 112-run partnership in the recent victory against Bangladesh, reminiscent of the legendary pair, Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes, who similarly achieved multiple century opening stands.
Sammy commended the team’s improved handling of spin conditions, traditionally challenging for them. “The work, especially the batters put in, and the preparation, that we have put in over the years led us to coming to Bangladesh where we know spin has been something that’s bothered us in the past,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the second Test in Sylhet, beginning on Thursday, Sammy set a target of a 2-0 series win, which would cap off a successful WTC cycle for the Caribbean team. “It’s going to be a big achievement,” he remarked, noting the formidable opposition posed by Bangladesh, whose team is well-managed under coach Phil Simmons.
The West Indies have already secured an unbeaten streak in this calendar year, a feat not seen since 1994. This includes victories over Sri Lanka and a draw against Pakistan. Reflecting on this success, Sammy said, “It is the first time since 1994 [that] we have finished a calendar year without losing a series. It’s progress – what we have been through and the challenges we face and what we have to do in spite of all those challenges.”
As they prepare for the upcoming match, Sammy elaborated on their adaptive approach to team selection, influenced by pitch conditions. In the previous match, for example, left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop was included after a last-minute assessment of the pitch. “I have had a look at the wicket yesterday, but I don’t think I would make a fair assessment until the day of the game,” he stated, indicating a flexible strategy.
West Indies are keenly eyeing a series sweep but are aware of Bangladesh’s resilience. “Knowing Bangladesh and knowing Phil [Simmons] the way he operates, he’s going to come out for blood, and we don’t expect it to be anything easy,” said Sammy. The anticipation of a competitive second Test underscores the importance of their preparations as they strive to end their Test campaign on a high.
