West Indies' T-20 WC Triumph: An analysis
When nobody expected them to even reach the semi finals, they roared and conquered their way to a maiden T-20 World Cup, thus shutting the blabbering tongues of their critics. They played like champions and certainly looked like a unit playing for a purpose. But the man behind this success was certainly, the silent lion, their leader Darren Sammy. It is his humbleness that he did not even take the credit for this astounding win. He led the team through the most difficult times- when ageing stars were retiring, senior players battling with the board and newbies not taking the game seriously.
Leadership is all about man-management. To get the best out of your men is the key. Darren Sammy not only made the Windies a fighting unit but also ensured that the passage is not ruined by high-headedness of players. They battled through the odds and turned the tables on the Lankan lions in their own den.
The revival of good times started when the West Indies cricket board broke the shackles and patched matters up with the herculean Chris Gayle, regarded as the most feared T-20 cricketer in the world. His reinstatement in the team ensured a good start every time and a big fear looming in the heart of the opponents aware of his exuberant prowess.
The trump card of the Windies in this World Cup was the heroics of once faded Marlon Samuels. He was the man to go to for the captain. As he batted, bowled, fielded with new found rhythm, he architected many wins for the Caribbeans and came good especially in the games which mattered most. His batting heroics against New Zealand can’t be forgotten when he muscled his team into the semis.
The other members who were expected to fire in Sri Lankan conditions were the wily Sunil Narine and economical Samuel Badree. No-one could have imagined Darren Sammy opening their bowling with Badree. He was a brave selection for the all important tour with Devendra Bishoo and Suliemann Benn on the prowl and fighting for the second spinner slot. He was decisive and checked the batsmen in power plays.
In the end it was a welcome victory for the sleeping giants. It might well open the floodgate for the Calypso boys to revive the sport in the country. Once a force, West Indies lost its ode and charm when they, apart from occasional brilliance, slumped to the worst failures as a unit. We hope they extend their good run in Test and 50 over cricket also. Needless to say, we would like to see how else the Calypso boys can celebrate apart from their famous ‘Gangnam style’.