… Test skipper Brathwaite thanks Holder for support

By Clifton Ross

WEST Indies head selector Roger Harper said the Bangladesh series was a revelation for his team and as a result he wants to see the current culture continue as they look to regain some weight in the Test arena.
The CWI selectors recently revealed a new-look unit for the home Test series against Sri Lanka following the end of the ODIs and selector Harper and newly appointed Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite spoke virtually with the media yesterday as they gave insight into the team’s latest developments.
Brathwaite, who returned to form against Bangladesh, was relieved of his vice-captaincy duties last year but according to Harper, the Bajan’s attitude, return to batting form and ability to rally his teammates have somewhat created a new culture for the Windies and one that Harper wants to blossom.
“Sometimes a few months can be a very long time and Bangladesh opened up our eyes to a number of things. What we saw was a team playing with determination, rallying around each other and showing a rare desire to win.” Harper said.

The former Guyana/West Indies all-rounder continued,” So I think Kraigg as captain of the team played a big part in that. We also saw Kraigg’s batting return to the form that we expected and looked forward to. That will only get better and I expect the big scores to come from Kraigg in the near future,” Harper added.
While players like Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer were key names to miss out on the upcoming Tests, Harper further gave detailed explanation as to why some players lucked out while others earned their spots.
“Bangladesh presented us with an opportunity for areas of improvement and we saw exactly the sort of effort, spirit and the birth of a culture we would like to see develop and go forward and we would like the continuation of that,” said Harper.
The chief selector said following Bangladesh, there were discussions held around players and those who performed well grabbed spots and places in this series, while other players missed out and in the case of the former Test vice-captain Chase, he was also one of the players to be a casualty.

Regarding Holder who will now have more time to focus on his all-round abilities, Harper said the pacer remains a key part in all three formats of cricket.
“Jason is an integral part of the Test team; he also plays all 3 formats so this is the time to take his game to another level. I thank Jason for his services and look forward to his commitment”.
Meanwhile, a confident Brathwaite said that he had already received blessings from his predecessor. He noted that the relationship between the two Barbadians date back a number of years and Holder has committed to being one of the leaders in the team, throwing his full support behind the new leader.
“For me as the leader, it’s to lead from the front and for us to keep the same attitude. The attitude we showed in practice sessions and on the field, I think those were key. Obviously we want to win games but I think once we remain disciplined, keep the attitude, that is the key going forward, “Brathwaite said.
The first of the 2-match Test series bowls off on March 21 at the Sir Viv Richards ground, Antigua.