Coach backs young WI Test side to challenge soon
Bowling coach Roddy Estwick believes West Indies can be a Test force to be reckoned with within the next two years, once the young players continue their promising development.
Speaking against the backdrop of what has been a bruising tour against Pakistan, Estwick reminded that the squad was a young one still learning the ropes.
“People forget this is a very, very young side. When you look at the number of players under 25, it is unbelievable that a side in Test cricket could be so young,” said Barbadian Estwick, a former West Indies Under-19 coach.
“But it’s a good thing and once the people of the Caribbean and the selectors remain patient, I think we’ve got the making of a pretty decent side in 12 to 18 months.”
While they were completely outplayed in the limited overs series, they have put up somewhat of a fight in the two Tests so far, stretching each encounter into the final day before succumbing.
Estwick said the Caribbean side had shown glimpses of what they were capable of during the Test series.
“You have to look at how Shannon Gabriel has bowled, especially in the last Test match,” he said.
“You look at (Devendra) Bishoo in the first match as well. You look at how Kraigg Brathwaite played in the last innings, and also Jermaine Blackwood, so you’re seeing a glimpse and once people continue to work hard [they will improve.]”
West Indies will try to end the tour on a high note when they take on Pakistan in the final Test here starting tomorrow.