ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — West Indies Head coach Andre Coley lauded his players following a dominant performance against Bangladesh in Antigua which saw the home side claim an emphatic 201-run victory in the first Test.
Coley commended his players for their efforts, particularly highlighting the contributions of the fast-bowling unit.
“The bowlers were outstanding. They showed great discipline and control throughout the match, exploiting the conditions perfectly. It’s always pleasing to see the fast-bowling group working together and creating pressure as a unit. They’ve set the tone for what we want to achieve in this series.”
Led by fiery spells from Alzarri Joseph and Kemar Roach, the West Indies pace attack dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup in both innings. Joseph’s raw pace and Roach’s pinpoint accuracy proved too much for the visitors, who struggled to cope with the relentless onslaught. The duo, along with Jayden Seales shared crucial wickets, and Coley believes the right decision was made to play an all-pace attack.
“I am more specific about the role of each bowler. Kemar is asked to set the tone with Jayden emerging as a new ball bowler. Alzarri gives us that aggression first change and Shamar is also emerging.”
In the batting department, Justin Greaves was one of the standout performers. Coming into the side with a rich vein of form from the Super 50 cup, the Barbadian went on to score his maiden Test century. His unbeaten knock was instrumental in giving the West Indies a commanding first-innings lead. The West Indies also got useful half-century contributions from opener Mikyle Louis and Justin Athanaze.
“Justin’s (Athanaze) innings was exceptional. He played with a lot of maturity and composure, which is exactly what we needed. His role is crucial at number six where he bats and can swing the ball when he bowls. Performances like that inspire the entire team and show the depth we’re building.”
While captain Kraigg Brathwaite had a quiet match with the bat with scores of four and 23, Coley expressed confidence in his skipper’s ability to bounce back. Brathwaite, who has been a cornerstone of the team’s success in recent years, has struggled for consistency of late, but Coley dismissed any concerns.
“Kraigg is a proven performer and a leader. Every player goes through patches where runs don’t come as easily, but I have no doubt he will find his form soon. He wants to do well and it is for us to give him the support and ensure he maintains his shape.”
The victory in Antigua also boosts the West Indies’ aspirations in the ICC World Test Championship. With crucial points still up for grabs, Coley believes his side can achieve their targets for the competition.
“The win is important, but we also have some long-term goals. We are still in a World Test Championship and there are a couple of goals we have in mind and those goals are still attainable.”
The West Indies will look to carry their form into the second Test which bowls off on Saturday at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica. (CMC)
