CMC – While the scoreline reads a dominant 2-0 series victory for India, the story of the recently concluded Test series against the West Indies was one of resolute spirit and a powerful tribute from an unlikely source, the home side’s coach, Gautam Gambhir.

Despite the lopsided result, the West Indies team won immense respect for their tenacity, particularly during a stirring fightback in the second Test at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium.

This display of heart did not go unnoticed. In a poignant moment at the series’ conclusion, West Indies coach Daren Sammy invited Gambhir to address his squad.

What followed was not a victor’s gloat, but a heartfelt appreciation of the visiting team’s character.

Gambhir began by applauding the players as “great role models,” highlighting their conduct off the field.

“It’s a great learning experience the way you guys carry yourself, your humility, your humbleness is something which my team and a lot of teams across the globe have to learn from.”

He then turned to their on-field performance in Delhi, specifically their remarkable second innings where Shai Hope and John Campbell scored centuries, all-rounder Justin Greaves remained unbeaten on fifty, and No. 11 Jayden Seales batted for over an hour for his 32.

Gambhir framed this fight as a potential turning point for West Indies cricket. “Purpose is always more important than love. When I look at you guys, I feel that you can inspire the next generation. I think the way you played in the second innings is probably the template which can take West Indies cricket forward.”

The Indian coach emphasised the critical, yet often overlooked, value of small contributions. He praised players like Seales and Anderson Phillip for their dogged batting, calling them “massive contributions” that truly build a team, even if they don’t make the headlines.

“The only opinions that should matter are what people think in this dressing room,” reinforcing the importance of internal belief over external noise.

Acknowledging the greater financial and logistical challenges faced by the West Indies team, Gambhir commended their ability to persevere with a smile.

But he saved his most powerful words for last, delivering a message that resonated far beyond the dressing room walls.

“West Indian cricket doesn’t need world cricket; World cricket needs West Indian cricket. Remember that.”