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West Indies white-ball coach Daren Sammy has dropped hints about the inclusion of young pacer Shamar Joseph in the upcoming T20 World Cup, acknowledging the selection challenge posed by the 24-year-old’s outstanding performance in the Test series against Australia.
Joseph made headlines with a remarkable seven-wicket haul in the second innings at the Gabba, securing West Indies’ historic eight-run victory over Australia. This triumph marked their first Test win against Australia since 2003, and it followed Joseph’s maiden five-wicket haul in his debut Test in Adelaide.
“He will be an all-format player. I can’t wait to get my hands on him in this squad. But look, everything has a process to it. That’s the way the chairman of selectors operates. What he’s done, he’s created a really good headache for me with the World Cup coming up, building forward in the ODI team,” Sammy stated.
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With Shamar Joseph impressing in the Test format, Sammy also highlighted the development of a core group across all formats, enabling the selection of players based on performance. Despite Joseph’s limited List-A and T20 experience, his Test heroics have elevated his potential in white-ball cricket.
Sammy expressed hope that the ODI squad draws inspiration from Joseph’s stellar performance, emphasizing a strategic and thoughtful approach to planning.
“We ride the wave that’s happening there, but we won’t go crazy. If the guy’s injured, let him go home and rest. That’s probably the first time he’s been away from home for so long. He’s got a young family. So, we understand. Whatever we do is well-planned and well-thought-out,” Sammy added.
The West Indies white-ball coach emphasized the significance of balancing on-field success with players’ personal lives, recognizing the importance of family time for Joseph.
As West Indies prepares for the white-ball series against Australia, Sammy remains optimistic about the team’s performance and hopes the players draw motivation from Joseph’s exceptional display in the Test arena.
The Caribbean outfit is set to face Australia in three ODIs and as many T20Is, with the first one-day encounter scheduled at the MCG on Friday.
–IANS
