Bold experiments needed to help WI players cope with international cricket

Dear Editor,

Shannon Gabriel has been the most effective fast bowler in the region for the last two years. When injury kept captain Jason Holder, the best West Indian all-rounder, out of the team for the Bangladesh tour, Gabriel knew his presence would be critical. His success in the first test would have confirmed this. Yet, in that very first test, he behaved in a manner (using his chest to intimidate an opposition player) that led to his suspension for the second test.

A young fast bowler who demonstrated exceptional talent that even the great Gavaskar noted in India playing 20 overs cricket last month, has already been pigeonholed as a 20 overs cricketer. Darren Ganga, former West Indian opening batsman, broadcasting in Bangladesh, was asked a straightforward question by a Bangladeshi broadcaster about Darren Bravo not being selected to play in the ongoing series.

After reciting Bravo`s comparatively solid record and recent appearances, he ended his answer by saying something to the effect that Bravo would be in contention for future selection. The opening batsmen and the numbers three and four, all of whom are talented batsmen, cannot buy runs because they are totally devoid of confidence and incapable of relaxation. Hetmyer cannot do it all. Management needs bold experiments that are designed to help players cope better with the pressure of international cricket. When a condition like this persists, management must accept responsibility and divest themselves of the power to manage. Unless something positively dramatic happens in the remaining two days, there must be a wholesale change in management.

Yours faithfully,

Romain Pitt