West Indies poor show in ICC World Test Championship continue. In last two WTC cycles, West Indies have only won 8 and lost 17 Tests.
West Indies cricket team, once a dominant force in the world of Test cricket, has been struggling to find their footing in recent years. Their performance in the last two World Test Championship (WTC) cycles has been particularly disappointing. Despite moments of promise, the team's inability to put together consistent performances has been glaring.
The West Indies, who ruled the roost from the 1970s to the early 1990s, are now facing an existential crisis in the longest format of the game. This article delves into the reasons behind their decline and the steps needed to revive their fortunes.
Two previous WTC cycles
Since the inception of the ICC World Test Championship, West Indies have played 31 matches, winning only eight and losing 17, with five games resulting in a draw. Out of the eight wins, four have come against Bangladesh, two against England, and one each against Australia and Pakistan.
The inaugural World Test Championship (2019–2021) was a mixed bag for the West Indies. They managed to win only three of their 13 matches, which included an unexpected victory against England in Southampton, a memorable win that showcased their potential.
However, these moments of brilliance were few and far between. The team struggled to maintain consistency, suffering heavy defeats against India, New Zealand, and South Africa. Their position on the WTC points table reflected their struggles, as they finished in the lower half.
The second WTC cycle (2021-2023) has not seen significant improvement. West Indies have again found themselves on the losing side, more often than not. They started with a disappointing series loss against South Africa at home, followed by a tough series in Sri Lanka, where their batting frailties were exposed.
The series against India was particularly harsh, with the West Indies suffering heavy defeats in both matches. Despite occasional sparks of brilliance from players like Jermaine Blackwood and Kraigg Brathwaite, the team has failed to string together consistent performances.
Young and inexperienced squad
The on-going tour of England is a stark reflection of the current state of West Indies cricket. The team, led by Kraigg Brathwaite, is composed predominantly of young and inexperienced players. While Brathwaite brings a wealth of experience, the absence of seasoned campaigners like Shai Hope and Roston Chase has left a void. Hope, known for his twin centuries at Headingly in 2017, has been a crucial part of the batting lineup, while Chase has been a reliable all-rounder. Their absence means that the burden of responsibility falls heavily on the young shoulders of players like Nkrumah Bonner, Kyle Mayers, and Kacy Carty.
This young team, though talented, lacks the experience and composure required to compete consistently at the highest level. The pressure of international cricket, particularly in challenging conditions like those in England, can be overwhelming. The young players have shown glimpses of their potential, but they need time and guidance to develop into consistent performers. The current scenario is reminiscent of the rebuilding phase that many cricketing nations go through, but for West Indies, the stakes are higher given their rich cricketing legacy.
Read More: T20 World Cup 2024: Twice World T20 winning skipper Daren Sammy reinforces belief in WI as coach
Recent performances
West Indies' last series win came against Bangladesh at home in 2022. However, this victory was an anomaly in an otherwise bleak period. The team has suffered heavy defeats in recent series, including a 2-0 whitewash against India and a 2-1 loss to South Africa. Their performance in the WTC has been dismal, with more losses than wins and frequent batting collapses. This has left their bowlers with little to defend, even when they have bowled well.
In the series against South Africa, the batting unit failed to post competitive totals, collapsing under pressure. The India series saw similar issues, with the team unable to withstand the high-quality bowling attack. The inability to build partnerships and convert starts into big scores has been a recurring problem. Even in matches where the bowlers have performed admirably, the lack of runs on the board has made it difficult to secure wins.
Decline of West Indies Test Cricket
The decline of West Indies Test cricket can be attributed to several factors. The rise of T20 leagues has shifted the focus of many players, who now prioritise the shorter format for its financial rewards. The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and other T20 leagues around the world offer lucrative contracts, which are hard to resist for players from a region with limited financial resources. This shift has impacted the development of players suited for Test cricket, as they spend more time honing skills suited for the shorter format.
West Indies have given chances to 32 players since the start of the WTC 2021–23 cycle, with many changes aimed at finding the right combination. It's worth noting that out of these 32 players, 19 didn't even get a chance to feature in more than 10 games. This instability has hampered the development of a settled team, which is essential for performing well in Test cricket.
Moreover, West Indies' batting struggles are further highlighted by their inability to post substantial totals. In their last 61 innings, the team has managed to score 300 or more runs only 10 times. This stark statistic underscores the batting unit's consistent failures and puts immense pressure on the bowlers to compensate for the lack of runs, which is often an insurmountable task.
Steps for revival
To revive their fortunes in Test cricket, West Indies need to convince their players to recommit to the format. The allure of T20 leagues is undeniable, but Test cricket offers a different kind of legacy. Players who excel in Test cricket are remembered as legends; their performances etched in the annals of history. The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) should emphasise the prestige and honour associated with representing the region in the longest format. Financial incentives, central contracts prioritising Test cricket, and career development opportunities can be used to attract and retain players' interest in Tests.
A concerted effort must be made to reignite the passion for Test cricket among West Indies’ cricketers. Workshops, mentorship programmes with past legends, and campaigns highlighting the rich history and legacy of West Indies cricket can play a crucial role. Players should be reminded of the glory days of the 1980s, when West Indies were the undisputed kings of Test cricket, dominating every opponent with their formidable pace attack and resilient batting lineup.
Conclusion
West Indies batters need to show more resilience and determination in Tests to provide their bowlers with competitive totals to defend. The current team, although promising, need time and experience to develop. Until then, the West Indies cricket board must focus on convincing their players to commit to Test cricket and rekindle the fire that once made them the most feared team in the world.
Only then can the team hope to revive their fortunes in Test cricket and live up to the rich legacy of their past. The road to revival is long and arduous, but with the right strategies and commitment, West Indies can once again become a force to be reckoned with in Test cricket.
Read More: AUS vs WI: Former Security Guard Shamar Joseph helps WI get first Test win in 27 years in Australia
Comments