ST, JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — In an exclusive interview with Cricket West Indies’ Nicholas Maitland, West Indies Academy’s rising star Carlon Bowen-Tuckett opened up about his cricket journey, his guiding principles, and the significance of faith and family in his life.

The young wicketkeeper-batsman recently achieved a major milestone, scoring his maiden first-class century against Barbados Pride, a moment that marked a turning point in his burgeoning career.

Bowen-Tuckett began the third day of the match on 71 not out, sensing something special was on the horizon. However, as he edged closer to the century mark, the weight of the occasion began to take its toll.

“When I hit 90, that’s when the nerves and emotions started kicking in,” Bowen-Tuckett said. “I was a little guilty of looking too far ahead and not playing each ball with the care it deserved.”

Despite the mounting pressure, the 20-year-old held his nerve to reach the coveted three-figure mark in Barbados, a place of deep personal significance. Though raised in Nevis, Bowen-Tuckett was born in Barbados, where his maternal grandfather, Egerton Bowen, served as a pastor. It is this strong religious foundation that continues to shape his approach to cricket and life.

“My faith allows me to stay calm because I know I have the backing of God,” he said. “I’ve learned that God always has a plan for me. Even when I face difficulties, whether it’s not scoring the runs I want or not keeping wicket as well as I’d like, I know He won’t leave me alone. He has bigger and better plans for me.”

This sense of calm has proven invaluable in his dual role as a wicketkeeper-batsman, a position that demands technical skill, mental resilience, and physical fitness. Bowen-Tuckett emphasised the importance of balancing both aspects of his game.

“Both roles are equally important,” he said. “Some say batting is more crucial in modern cricket, but they go hand in hand. If you don’t keep wicket well, it hinders the team, and if you don’t bat well, it does the same.”

To maintain this balance, Bowen-Tuckett adopts a systematic approach to training.

“I try to give equal attention to both batting and wicketkeeping,” he said. “If I feel strong in one area but neglected the other, I adjust my focus accordingly.”

Bowen-Tuckett draws inspiration from his godfather, former West Indies wicketkeeper Ridley Jacobs, and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson.

“My game is similar to Williamson’s, as I take my time and bat a lot of balls,” he said. “In this Academy team, we have players who score quickly, so I’ve embraced my role of absorbing pressure and building an innings.”

Looking ahead, the young cricketer remains grounded and focused on the present.

“If I do my work and perform on the field, the future will take care of itself,” he said. “My goal is to contribute to the team in every game.”

For aspiring cricketers, Bowen-Tuckett offers simple yet profound advice.

“Enjoy the process and the game,” he said. “At a young age, don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself. Embrace the hard work and enjoy your career.”