Chase optimistic about Test series win

…Reveals Paul included as cover for Roach, if necessary

West Indies will come face to face with Sri Lanka once again at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium today for the second and final match in their two-match Test series.
With a massive victory in Game One under their belt, not only are the Men in Maroon oozing confidence, but they are now convinced of breaking a 23-year jinx, which has seen the Caribbean side unable to overcome Sri Lanka in a Test series since 2003.
As such, West Indies Captain Roston Chase shared what a series win would mean to his side.
“It would mean a lot,” Chase shared with CWI Media. “As I said before, it’s going to be the first test series win, so it’s going to feel good because last year we didn’t win any series; we didn’t win any games. So, I think last year was a year we want to put behind us, and to come and start this year, in the first series that we have, to get the win, I think that would be fantastic.”
The Skipper went on to divulge where their focus is at, noting that their only concern is playing to their strengths.
“Going into the second Test 1-0 up, the only thing we’re looking for here is the next win to seal the deal and get our first win and first Test series win in the championship. So, I think that’s what’s driving the guys right now; everyone’s looking forward to that first win,” Chase confidently expressed.
“So, I know the guys will be confident and excited to go out there and give their best performance for the team.’’

He turned his attention to the opposition, stating, “The Sri Lankans, I can’t tell you what they’re going to change. I’m not really worried about them; we’re going to focus on our strengths, what we did well and what we didn’t do so well that we can improve on. So, I’m just worried about what we’re going to do.”
Quizzed about the new addition to the Test squad, Chase shared some insight on Keemo Paul’s selection as he praised the Guyanese player’s work ethic.
Chase revealed about the Guyanese’s inclusion, “He’s coming in as cover for Kemar Roach. He has a bit of a hamstring niggle, so we’re not sure what’s going to happen there as yet, but Keemo Paul, he had a good four-day championship this year, bowled some long marathon spells, and moved the ball at pace. So, if he gets a chance, I’ll be excited to see him go. He’s a guy that I played cricket with before, and he’s a strong soldier; he’s a fighter; he’s a guy that never gives up the battle. Even in the hardest of times, he’s a guy that will put up his hand and do it for the team.
“So, if he gets the chance, I have all confidence in him that he’ll do the job,” the test captain added.
The first ball will be bowled at 10:00h today, running until Tuesday, July 7.