As the West Indies gear up for the decisive match in their series against India, head coach Daren Sammy reflects on the team’s notable achievements. This tour marks the first time in two decades that the West Indies have secured more than two wins against India on their home turf, something Sammy views as a significant achievement. “For us, success is progress,” Sammy declared. “In spite of all the challenges we face, if we can compete against the world’s best team and defend our place in the conversation, that’s progress.”
The West Indies squad has faced considerable challenges, including pay cuts and the cancellation of domestic tournaments as part of efforts to stabilise financially. After setting a formidable target of 405 in an ODI in Guwahati, they were bested by India. Nonetheless, the team rallied to chase 352 successfully in the series’ final ODI. In the ongoing five-match T20I series, they came back from an initial loss to chase down 250 and later defended 247 in the fourth match, setting the stage for a tense finale in Bengaluru with the series tied 2-2.
Despite these hurdles, the West Indies have remained a captivating team. “It’s not because of, it’s in spite of all the challenges that we face,” Sammy noted. Both squads have excelled in batting, averaging a rapid run rate over 11 throughout the four matches. While inclement weather looms over the final T20I, with impending rain at Chinnaswamy Stadium potentially affecting play, the ground’s efficient drainage system offers some reassurance.
Acknowledging the tour conditions, Sammy admitted, “I think when you come to India, you watch the IPL, this is the type of surface that the guys are accustomed to playing on.” The flat pitches have predominantly favoured batsmen, though recent matches have seen bowlers hold their ground as well. “With no dew around, it became a slightly more even contest,” Sammy observed, adding that quality wickets without dew allow skills to shine, as evidenced throughout this series.
This series also marks the eighth white-ball match for the West Indies in just 20 days, involving travel across various Indian cities. “The demands on the body from the travel – it’s eight different cities,” said Sammy. He acknowledges that while the itinerary is rigorous, India remains an exciting place to tour due to its passionate cricket fans and diverse culture. “For us, as a coach, as a group, the goal is to manage the players,” Sammy emphasised.
With cricket providing an enlivening effect back home in the Caribbean, Sammy hopes the series finale delivers another captivating performance. “It’s been box-office TV, and hopefully, tomorrow gives us that opportunity to bring the curtains down on an excellent tour and an excellent series,” he concluded.
