West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite remains optimistic about the team’s future despite a recent Test series defeat to South Africa. While acknowledging the need for improved mental fortitude, Brathwaite highlighted the potential of a young bowling attack and batting lineup.
The West Indies were defeated by 40 runs on Saturday at the Providence Stadium in Georgetown, marking their 10th consecutive series loss to South Africa. However, Brathwaite emphasized that there were positive takeaways from the two-match series. He praised the performance of young bowlers Shamar Joseph (24) and Jayden Seales (22), who showcased their talent and skill throughout the series. Joseph secured five wickets in the first innings, while Seales claimed his best Test figures of six for 61 in the second innings, contributing to an exciting contest.
“The guys have a lot of potential and talent, and they just come out and do it, they have a lot of skill,” Brathwaite told reporters.
Despite the promising performances of the bowling unit, the home batting lineup fell short of a 263-run target set by South Africa. While showing determination, the Windies were bundled out at crucial junctures.
“It’s important to continue to keep learning as batters. We just got to keep thinking about our game, finding ways to improve. It is for us to aim to do it more consistently and I think mentally, find ways to be better,” added the Windies captain.
The West Indies’ loss to South Africa followed a 3-0 series defeat in England last month. The team will not play another Test until November when they host Bangladesh in a two-match series.
“I’d say the future is very bright, especially with our fast-bowling unit. But I must say, I’m very excited about the batting unit too,” Brathwaite added. “I really think the line-up that we have can do the job. Obviously being mentally tough is most important in playing Test matches. We’ve been asking for more Test matches to play,” he said.
Brathwaite’s optimism stems from the potential of the young talent within the team. He believes that the West Indies have the necessary skills to achieve success in the future, but emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and consistency in Test cricket.
