Sammy deserves to be retained as ODI captain: Clive Lloyd

Toronto, June 28 (IANS/CMC)

Darren Sammy

Former West Indies cricket captain Clive Lloyd says Darren Sammy should not have been relieved of his duties as skipper of the regional side for One-day Internationals.

Sammy, who has been retained as captain of the T20 and test teams, was removed as leader of the ODI squad and replaced with Dwayne Bravo who captained the side in the just ended ICC Champions Trophy.

Lloyd, who led the West Indies during an era when they were world beaters, says the St. Lucian all-rounder deserves to be retained as captain since he has performed well in the role.

“I don’t have a problem with Dwayne’s (Bravo) captaincy; he is a fine cricketer and can be called upon anytime,” said Lloyd Thursday.

“But I think Sammy has taken over the responsibility at a difficult time and he has done well since then and deserved a longer try, however, I am confident they will do well against Sri Lanka and India in the Caribbean.”

The former Windies captain was speaking in Toronto where he was part of the Guyana delegation celebrating the country’s 47th Independence anniversary.

Lloyd has expressed confidence in West Indies ability to win the tri-nation series starting Friday involving India and Sri Lanka but says the bowlers need to show more consistency.

“I strongly believe we have a very good and balanced team but the guys have got to play to the best of their abilities; the bowling’s a little weak, they need to work and try different bowlers,” said the 68-year-old.

“Kemar Roach is an excellent bowler and he should be the one to look at while I think they should try Guyanese fast bowler Ronsford Beaton; he is very impressive.”

The West Indies, led by Bravo, start their campaign against Sri Lanka at Sabina Park Friday before taking on India at the same venue Sunday.