Sammy leads fresh Windies

19.NOV.10

Editor: While Vincentians remain stricken with contagious bouts of election fever, Darren Sammy and his merry band of Windies cricketers have embarked on an odds-defying campaign. Without fanfare, the effervescent Sammy slipped into his unexpected role of Windies captain in the present Sri Lankan test series. As such, it was vital that he gained the respect of his more illustrious colleagues.{{more}} This is crucial, given that he was not a full-fledged squad member leading up to his meteoric rise to the helm.

If the West Indies’ exploits in this week’s first Sri Lankan Test Match is any gauge, then Sammy’s fears have been allayed. The high level of commitment displayed by his charges during the match is heartening. This was mirrored in their on-field performances, most notably Chris Gayle’s blitzkrieg. Yes, the Windies have shown that they can successfully compete with the Sri Lankans in their own backyard!

Although Sammy’s captaincy reign is an interim one, the same level of distinction befitting this true professional is guaranteed. I remain convinced that he will not repeat the spectacle of a forlorn figure (captain!) staring in oblivion as his white coach calculates a revised Duckworth/Lewis target! The WICB has, therefore, shown great foresight in axing Gayle and terminating fellow money-hongs Bravo and Pollard’s central contracts. It shows that the Board is ready to retake and redirect Windies cricket from vulturous clutches.

Evidently, Sammy has successfully earned the respect of his mates and garnered valuable support from key players like Gayle, Chanderpaul and Dwayne Bravo! This is no mean feat, given the prolonged period of marginalization meted out to Windward Islands cricketers and officials. No doubt, Sammy’s honest approach to the game and his commitment to Windies cricket influenced the WICB’s choice of captain.

Certainly, West Indian fans should savor the team’s recent triumph. Indeed, only an eternal optimist would’ve expected the West Indies to take the Sri Linkans to the limit. The Windward Islands, especially St. Lucians, have more cause to celebrate, since Sammy is first among his compatriots to captain the West Indies cricket team.

As the West Indies continue their uphill battle to reclaim past glory, the daunting prospect of successfully competing in next year’s cricket world cup looms in the future’s foreground. Nevertheless, cricket is still the most unifying Caribbean force. Let us rally round Sammy and the Windies.

Collin CA$H Haywood