DAR ES SALAAM - West Indies head coach Darren Sammy praised Jomel Warrican's preparation and attention to detail following the spinner's match-winning performance in the opening Test against Bangladesh. Warrican claimed nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings, to help West Indies take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The 34-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner, who has featured in just three Tests over the past 12 months, has been deployed selectively by the team management, preferring conditions that suit his style of bowling. The decision has yielded results, with Warrican taking 15 wickets at an average of 21.46 in eight Tests during the last year - significantly better than his career average of 28.21 from 26 Tests, in which he has taken 93 wickets including a best of 7 for 32.
“Jomel was brilliant. He is one who pays attention to detail, always wants to know what is required of him. His preparation has been spot on, and you can only perform when you get the opportunity,” said Sammy.
Warrican's performances have been instrumental in West Indies' approach to the ICC World Test Championship cycle. The team will look to carry the same mentality into the second Test in Sylhet, scheduled to begin on November 5.
“But I am pretty sure with what I see from the guys - the hunger, the determination, the willingness to work hard, and the attention to detail they put into their preparation - it tells me that whatever we face in Sylhet, we'll be ready,” Sammy said.
Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons will not make it easy, wanting to win as well. The visitors have their own goals in the Test Championship, but West Indies believe their preparation and application will stand them in good stead.
