Signs of a turnaround

Signs of a turnaround

Despite a recent disappointing record on One-Day internationals (ODIs), assistant coach Roddy Estwick believes the signs are there that West Indies are about to turn around their fortunes in the format.

He said that not only did the Caribbean side possess the quality players necessary but were also beginning to develop a high-class worth ethic in their preparation.

“It’s exciting times for us. When you look at somebody like (Shimron( Hytmyer, “Nicholas (Pooran), Shai Hope- we’ve got young batsmen who are developing,” he told a media conference in India where the West Indies faced India in three ODIs.

Hetmyer scored 139, Shai Hope 102 and Pooran 29 not out as West Indies trounced India in the first ODI in Chennai.

“Once our players can learn from players like Virat Kholi then we’ve got a chance because without hard work there is no success and hard work is boring but it give you great success,” he said.

West Indies have struggled in ODIs in recent years and currently languish at number nine, ahead of the likes of minnows Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe.

However, the year began with much promise when they held world number one England 2-2 in a five-match series in the Caribbean.

But a wretched World Cup campaign where they managed just two wins in nine matches and finished ninth, coupled with a subsequent series loss to India at home, saw their form slump again.

Estwick said the players had lifted themselves well for the ongoing subcontinent tour, however, reflected the high level of professionalism required.