The West Indies cricket team has initiated an urgent review following a disastrous outing against Australia, where they recorded their second lowest Test total ever at just 27 runs. Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland dominated the batting line-up, causing them to crumble, with a last-minute misfield from Sam Konstas preventing a record-equalling total of 26, which remains the lowest ever score, set by New Zealand in 1955.
The series has been particularly brutal for the West Indies batters, none of whom reached three figures as fast bowlers wreaked havoc. This latest defeat prompted the West Indies cricket authorities to enlist the help of legendary players to devise a way forward. Among those called upon are cricket icons Sir Viv Richards, Sir Clive Lloyd, and Brian Lara, alongside other former stars such as Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Desmond Haynes. Cricket West Indies president Dr Kishore Shallow emphasised that the engagement of these legends is focused on creating tangible solutions for the team’s future.
Dr Shallow acknowledges that the team is currently in a “rebuilding phase” and aspires to rekindle the spirit that once made West Indies cricket a formidable force. The immediate future includes series against India and New Zealand, which will be crucial for the team’s revitalisation.
Amid this upheaval, former player Carl Hooper expressed his pessimism regarding the team’s progress, suggesting that the current coach Darren Sammy should be replaced by former coach Andre Coley. Hooper lamented the missed opportunities after recent promising performances, including draws and wins in previous tours. He reflected on the backward steps the team has taken, leading to its present predicament, and stressed the necessity for accountability, particularly regarding Sammy’s role in team selections.
Hooper’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment of frustration within the West Indies cricket community about the team’s direction. As they brace for upcoming challenges, there is hope that the assembled strategy committee can provide insights to foster a stronger future for West Indies cricket.