T20 is an exhibition, Test is an examination – Sir Clive Lloyd

– not selecting Chemar in Test squad is a mistake

It is no secret that more West Indies players in the modern era are opting to play more T20 cricket and less Test matches. Former legendary West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd has said that despite foreign players engaging in T20 cricket in other territories, they still play for their country, but it is unfortunate that West Indies players choose T20 cricket over Test matches.

“I don’t think our guys seem to want to play the longer game, and that is a bit unfortunate, because if we could lose 10 players, it deflates the side. I hope the youngsters going (to Bangladesh) will have a chance to prove themselves, and the board should stick with them.
“I was a bit disappointed that (Chemar) Holder was not selected,” Lloyd said on the most recent Mason and Guest radio programme.
Sir Clive is, moreover, surprised that the West Indies selected three left-arm spinners in the Test squad. Veerasammy Permaul, Jomel Warrican and Kaveem Hodge are the left-arm spinners selected.
“It should be a good contest if we get our players to do well and play five-day cricket. We can’t just go about and play T20 cricket. T20 cricket is an exhibition, and Test is an examination,” Sir Clive has said.
Sir Clive strongly believes that the fast bowlers should be able to bowl in all different conditions, including those in the subcontinent, in order to perfect their games. The legendary captain noted that during his days, the West Indies were at their best with four fast bowlers and one spinner.
“The variety is not there. We need to get guys (who) want to bowl quick, and prepare pitches of that nature. Our players in the West Indies do not use their feet in the Caribbean, so it is a challenge for our spinners when they travel (to where) people (are) using their feet. Our spinners are different bowlers,” Lloyd said.
Further, he added that the West Indies need to have a settled side, and have consistent players on consistent bases.
Lloyd has declared he is disappointed that Shamarh Brooks has declined to tour, since he would have stabilised the batting.
The former West Indies captain is calling for the West Indies to have a fearless approach in Bangladesh, and bat well in both innings of the Test matches. (Brandon Corlette)