Dear Editor,
First, congratulations to the West Indies for making it to the World Cup 2019. However, there are some gaps in the team. We need an experienced wicket taking spinner to bowl the middle overs, even opening the batting if needed. The great Chris Gayle’s fitness and age seem to have taken its toll on the Universe Boss. Sunil Narine may be the best candidate for recall, especially since his batting has improved also, but he has to get his action cleared. Shai Hope has to increase his scoring rate, while Bishoo has to air the ball more, and bowl more accurately. Shimron Hetmyer is one of my favourite young batsmen, and we hope he makes use of his undoubted talents and makes it all the way to the top.
Some sort of amnesty must be worked out to get match winners like with Pollard, the Bravo brothers, Simmons, Badree, Russell and others who are definitely more suited for One Day cricket. Also, why is Phil Simmons not a part of the West Indian management outfit? Simmons had proved his coaching ability with assisting lesser teams, most recently Afghanistan in reaching the World Cup qualifiers, despite all odds.
We hope West Indies will compete hard and effectively. Hopefully win, if possible, although that is very unlikely. The other team members cannot leave everything to the captain Holder. The fact that he had to summon Evin Lewis from the pavilion to take the field to qualify to open West Indies batting, and step up in all roles when his team fails, happens too often. Every player needs to pull his weight. Cricket remains a game of glorious uncertainties, so step up Windies, the entire Caribbean will be rallying around you!
Sincerely,
Albert Baldeo
