Dear Editor,

Winning is contagious, it’s a habit and it’s one we are now proud to be associating with West Indies cricket.

The recent triumph in Bangladesh seems to have been a catalyst for the West Indies; not only did they defeat Sri Lanka in the T20 series, but on Sunday they completed a clean sweep of the One-Day International (ODI) series. The teams entered the final ODI of the three-match series with West Indies holding an unassailable 2-0 lead and seeking to stamp their authority on the Sri Lankans. Sri Lanka once again batted first and posted their highest total of the series and were looking to put West Indies under some early pressure. Unlike the first couple ODIs, in which the West Indies’ opening pair put on over 100 runs for the first wicket, they found themselves in a spot of bother early on, losing two quick wickets.

However, wicket-keeper batsman Shai Hope has shown he’s not shy versus Sri Lanka, as yet again he was among the runs with another classy half-century. But it was Bravo who stood the tallest on the day; anchoring the run chase with a patient 102 from 132 deliveries. It wasn’t one of his most fluent innings, but it was certainly a disciplined knock and one that ensured West Indies completed a clean sweep. It was a dominant series performance from the Caribbean men. They outplayed their Asian counterparts in all facets, surprisingly, even the West Indian spinners posed more of a threat than their heralded counterparts from Sri Lanka, and Coach Phil Simmons will certainly be a happy camper heading into the Test series.

Another challenge awaits Coach Simmons and his team come Sunday when the Test series begins; however, as we have said before, winning is contagious; winning is a habit, so victory will be at the forefront of their thoughts. Sri Lanka have been battered and bruised and, like predator to a prey, West Indies should be eager to pounce on them. A walkover in this Test series is not expected, but having got used to winning fans will be hopeful for and expectant of victory.

Kraigg Brathwaite retains the captaincy and will be looking to inspire his troops once again whilst leading from the front. He will be joined by the rest of the victorious players from the Bangladesh Test series, minus Shayne Moseley, as they make up the majority of the Test squad. They will be joined by the now-defunct Captain Jason Holder and Darren Bravo, who will be under pressure to perform in the critical number three position. Nonetheless, this is a chance for all these players to further secure their spot in the team and prove their performances in Bangladesh was no fluke, but rather the beginning of something special in West Indies cricket. So, while supporters celebrate the series sweep, we all eagerly look forward to what lies ahead in the Test series. Broom, anyone?

Kemar Bogle

knb800@yahoo.com