‘Bowlers need to keep things tight for as long as possible, stick to the plan’
RAJKOT: West Indies opener Kraigg Brathwaite, who captained West Indies in the first Test, was expected to play a key role in the series. After failing to make an impression in the first Test, where made just 12 across two innings, the pressure will be on him to perform in the second Test at Hyderabad. Excerpts from an interview.
As the most successful batsman in the current team, do you feel additional pressure?
No, I do not see any pressure. As an opening batsman it is never easy, so for me it is (always) about going out there and getting through the first session and building that foundation for the team. That is what I aim for. Caribbean cricketers are regular in T20 leagues around the world. Do you think T20 format is affecting their batting style? It is hard for me to answer that. I just think all the guys here are capable of doing well in Test cricket.
Did Kemar Roach’s absence from Rajkot Test affect your strategy?
As a bowling unit it was important for us to stick to our plans. If we are not getting wickets then we need to keep things as tight as possible for as long as possible.
How do you see this team shaping up?
I think in the recent series (against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka), we were doing quite well.
For us it is just about keeping the continuity. We need to keep building the team and team spirit. India is a good place to do it, against the world No 1 team.
Is there any batsman you look up to?
I like Hashim Amla, his temperament is quite good. I mean most international batsmen have the temperament but that is the guy I would say I look at.
Also Alastair (Cook) as an opener… I think most India batsmen are quite good, I see Virat Kohli as world class. And you can always learn from any batsman to be honest.