West Indies Coach Envisions Change on the Horizon

News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, Fl, Weds. Aug. 16, 2023: In the wake of a significant Twenty20 series victory by the West Indies cricket team over powerhouse India, White-ball head coach Darren Sammy says he and the team are committed to driving change within West Indies cricket.

After seven years without a series win over their Asian rivals, the West Indies team secured an impressive eight-wicket victory in the decisive T20 International at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL on Sunday, August 13th, securing a 3-2 overall verdict.

Shai Hope, of West Indies takes a shot during the fifth and final T20I match between West Indies and India at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida, on August 13, 2023. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

Amidst West Indies’ failure to qualify for the T20 World Cup last October and the upcoming 50-over World Cup, Sammy disclosed ongoing discussions with Cricket West Indies President Dr. Kishore Shallow and newly appointed Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, to shape the future.

Romario Shepherd, of West Indies bowls during the fifth and final T20I match between West Indies and India at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida, on August 13, 2023. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

“Our aim is to reshape the culture – the work culture, involving everyone,” said Sammy. “In collaboration with our new president, Kishore, and the director of cricket, we’re initiating changes. I ask for patience because transformation won’t happen overnight, but we’re establishing measures to bring about positive change.”

He added: “To our fans, I urge patience. Our efforts are focused on effective change for West Indies.”

Over the last year, West Indies cricket has experienced significant shifts, including the departure of head coach Phil Simmons, director of cricket Jimmy Adams, and captain Nicholas Pooran following the T20 World Cup qualification challenges.

Sammy has already established strong relationships with new captains Shai Hope (ODI) and Rovman Powell (T20), praising Powell’s leadership during the recent T20 series.

“I have great respect for Rovman. He’s strategic, and our conversations have been productive, as he mentioned in the press,” said Sammy.

“We sat down with him last weekend, and as a leader and captain, I simplified things for him. He even said, ‘Coach, I’m proud of you.’ We communicate openly, which creates a valuable partnership. It’s about teamwork and the team’s improvement, setting egos aside,” he added.

Sammy also observed the emergence of a promising new team, singling out all-rounder Romario Shepherd for his strong “work ethic.”

“Young Romario Shepherd has been steadily building his confidence with each game,” Sammy acknowledged. “He’s been consistently focused over the past few months, and we’ve seen his dedication firsthand. The results are a testament to his efforts and dedication.”