Cariah eager to make big impact against Sri Lankans
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Trinidad and Tobago left-hander, Yannic Cariah, says he is anxiously looking forward to next month’s West Indies A series against the touring Sri Lankans, and is intent on making his mark.
The 25-year-old was one among a few new faces in the 13-man Windies squad announced on Tuesday for the first two four-day “Tests” of the three-match series starting October 11 in Jamaica.
“I am really motivated for this tour and I cannot wait to get into the middle and give it my all,” said the Red Force left-hander.
“This is another great opportunity for me to show that I can play international cricket so I am looking forward to the challenge Sri Lanka will present.”
Cariah forced his way into the selection frame by plundering 691 runs during at an average of 43, to top the scoring charts during the last first class season.
He was one of seven players who passed 600 runs, joining fellow Red Force batsman, Kyle Hope (649), Leeward Islands Hurricanes wicketkeeper, Jahmar Hamilton (648), veteran former Windies batting star, Shiv Chanderpaul (622), Montcin Hodge (616), Devon Smith (611) and Sunil Ambris (608).
Hope was subsequently elevated to the Test squad while Hamilton, Hodge and Ambris have all been named in the A squad to face Sri Lanka. The previous season, Cariah managed a mere 374 runs but said he had been focused for a while now on achieving such a breakthrough in his career.
“I have been preparing for this opportunity for years now,” he said.
“I am seeing the results of my hard work and this is a good opportunity to further distinguish myself against a strong touring team.”
He added: “I think it is just for me to keep moving forward and keep doing the right things to get results. My mindset will be a key factor because I think that is the most important part of the game for me.
“I am putting in the necessary work in the gym and nets so once I am mentally ready I am confident this will be good series for me.”