LACK of concentration, consistency and the lure of fame and fortune of T20 could prevent the West Indies from ever recapturing their glory days.This is the picture Chris Gayle paints of the West Indies, who won their second T20 world title in April, defeating England in a dramatic final in India.
Since that time the West Indies have lost consecutive Test series to India and Pakistan. Gayle suggests that this could be an indication of potential fortune of the region’s Test-playing.
It will be difficult for West Indies to go back where they were in Test cricket,” said Gayle, who boasts two Test triple-centuries among his 7 214 Test runs.
Gayle, one of the best T20 batsmen in the world, said the current players lack the concentration and the consistency to excel at Test cricket.
“The structure of modern day cricket is such that it will be difficult to regain those days of glory because of the advent of the shorter format and the interest that it has generated among the youngsters. In longer formats, you need to concentrate more and have that game discipline in order to achieve consistency,” Gayle told Indiaustantimes.com
“If you look at our T20 success it is because of the short duration that helps one play their attacking game. So if you ask me about a turnaround, it seems difficult as of now.”
Gayle also opined that the money that players can now make playing the shortest form of the game, makes it hard for players to play Test cricket.
“You cannot rule out that possibility that Gen Next in the Caribbean will be more inclined to play T20 leagues. If you are a professional cricketer, you would want to have a good career,” said Gayle.
“With so many leagues across the globe, one needs to accept it as a reality today. If a guy is a good enough player and can remain fit, one can play in T20 leagues even above 40.” (Sportsmax.com)