ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Legendary former opener Desmond Haynes was yesterday confirmed as batting consultant to the West Indies team for this year’s Home Series.
The 55-year-old, who played 116 Tests and 228 One-Day Internationals during a 16-year career, was a part of the West Indies training camp in Barbados last week and has travelled to St Lucia with the squad for the first two ODIs against Pakistan starting this weekend.
Speculation was rife in recent days Haynes would have joined the side in the role, following his work during the preparatory camp at the 3Ws Oval.
“I have always said I wanted to be involved in West Indies cricket and help in any way I could,” said Haynes.
“This is a chance to help the young players with their development. I just want to see the players get better as we aim for improvement at all levels in West Indies cricket and get the team back to the halcyon days.”
Haynes will work with the Windies batsmen for the five ODIs and two Tests against Pakistan and will continue for the series against India which comprises five ODIs and three Tests, starting in June.
In announcing Haynes’ appointment, the West Indies Cricket Board said, however, that it would “commence the search for a full time batting coach” following the end of the Home Series.
Haynes will work in collaboration with head coach Ottis Gibson who was appointed last year, and said he was looking forward to the partnership.
“I am happy to be part of the Team Management Unit, headed by Ottis, and I believe I can also help the players with the mental aspect of their game and the way they go about their cricket in general,” he said.
“This is a chance to make a contribution and I’m pleased to be given the opportunity to be involved in West Indies cricket once more.”
During an illustrious career, Haynes made a name as a tough-nosed, unflappable batsman as he carved out 7487 runs in Tests and 8648 runs in ODIs.
He joins former West Indies captain Richie Richardson, another player for the halcyon era, who was named West Indies manager in January.
