Prior to the important series against India, West Indies performance coach Brian Lara said his team had been moving on the correct path. Notably, starting on July 12, the two teams will compete in a multi-format series that consists of two Test matches, three ODIs, and five T20Is.
On Wednesday, July 12, at Windsor Park in Dominica, the Windies and India will square off in the opening red-ball encounter. For both countries, the Test series will serve as the launch pad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), which will run from 2023 to 25. Kraigg Brathwaite’s leadership in the Windies gives them a decent chance, according to Lara, who acknowledged Team India’s talent before the first Test.
“We have two crucial Test matches against India coming up to start the two-year cycle (WTC) for us. Both at home and away, they are among the best teams in the world. From where we started the camp to where we are now, I believe the lads are heading in the right direction. The first game in Dominica is just a few days away, but it’s a youthful team capably led by Kraigg Brathwaite,” Lara was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.
Some of the guys in this series can really shine: Byrne Lara
Kirk McKenzie and Alick Athanaze are likely to make the playing XI for the upcoming series; hence, it is noteworthy that the Windies selection committee named two uncapped left-handed hitters in the set-up. Lara expressed his happiness at the young players’ participation and said that they will succeed in international cricket because they have the correct attitude and a desire to learn.
“I think some of the guys can really shine in this series. It’s going to be a tough opponent, but I think that’s how we can bring out the best in them.” Although it would have been ideal for them to have more first-class arena experience, they are excellent, talented players who, based on their playstyle and attitude, I believe, have what it takes to compete at the highest level, he continued.
No matter what age you join this stage at, it may take some time, but if you’re an international cricketer, you must learn very, very rapidly. And I believe they possess that mindset of wanting to learn and being open to listening,” Brian Lara said.