West Indies -The gangnam has just begun
There are a few sights people would die to watch in cricket. Sachin’s striaght drive, Warnie’s spin, Wasim’s swing to mention few. One such is Windies celebration after winning.
They were world beaters once, thanks to the pace quartet consisting of Marshal, Garner, Croft and Holding who had the ability to beat any batsman with sheer raw pace. Add to that the batting mastero Sir Viv richards, they were just unbeatable in world cricket till early 80′s. But the downfall started after 1983 World Cup where they lost in the finals to India. Even through the bad phase, Windies enjoyed the services of the likes of greats like Lara, Walsh, Ambrose, Hooper, Chanderpaul etc. The only thing missing to get desired results at international level was a team effort. Many individual records were made even during the bad phase of West Indian Cricket. Internal issues between players and WICB resulted in further slide down which continued as far as Gayle missing a good year of international cricket only to resume some 12 months back.
Gayle is back, spirit is back! A unit which once looked weaker than non test playing nations suddenly started growing in confidence. The most important aspect was the unity in the team which lacked since the last 2 decades or so. A bunch of talented young players willing to perform for the team and an inspired captain who, irrespective of conditions and situations, believes in himself and his team, changed things for the Windies. Coming into the T20 World Cup, Windies were considered favorites thanks to the efforts they were putting in every match irrespective of results. Slowly, results followed too, from a situation where they were almost out, to a super over, and finally – silverware – which the Carribbean fans were waiting for the last 29 years.
Carribbean fans are entertainment freaks. If there is Brazil for football, then there is Windies for Cricket; they prefer action along with music and dance. They like sharp bouncers, huge sixes, stumps going cartwheeling, drums making noises and traditional dancing. The current team has almost everything: the huge hitters, the entertainers, everything. With the way this team showed their spirit, almost every cricket fan was praying for their victory. There is nothing to criticise about them at this moment. They don’t have any arrogance or attitude. They are sincere and put in an honest effort. Even a non-cricket fan would love to watch their pure pleasurable childish celebration.
This team looks capable of bringing back the golden days of Windies cricket with more love, fun, entertainment and a big fan base.
This may mark the revival of West Indies Cricket. Congratulations to the Windies for winning the World Cup and thanks for all the entertainment you gave us.