In the records of T20 World Cup history, only eight players have been part of winning teams in multiple finals. Johnson Charles is among these elite few, having played minor roles in West Indies' victorious campaigns in 2012 and 2016. Despite contributing just 1 run from 12 balls in those finals, Charles now stands on the brink of becoming one of the most celebrated players in the tournament's history, potentially joining Andre Russell as the most decorated player in men's T20 World Cup history if he wins a third title.
Charles’ cricketing journey is remarkable. Known for his powerful batting, he has played just 54 T20 Internationals in a career spanning 13 years, but 18 of these appearances have come in World Cups, including during the two championship runs. After nearly six years away from international cricket between 2016 and 2022, Charles made a comeback in time for a tournament on home turf.
Playing at home is always a special moment, and for the West Indies in this World Cup, it's even more meaningful. The team will compete across five different venues, each featuring players who represent both their country and the broader Caribbean region.
For Charles, the spotlight will shine brightly when West Indies take on Afghanistan in St. Lucia. This match is not just another game; it takes place at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, a stadium named after their coach, who is also a local legend. Although Charles has had a subdued start in the World Cup, scoring a modest 42-ball 44 against Uganda and getting out for zero against Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, playing in front of his home crowd could be the catalyst he needs.
West Indies captain, Rovman Powell, highlighted the unique advantage of playing in the Caribbean, noting that each venue has strong local support for the West Indies team. Powell pinpointed the importance of this home advantage, especially in St. Lucia, where they will need robust local backing as they continue their World Cup journey.
St. Lucia, with a population of around 180,000 and an economy driven by tourism, isn't a traditional cricket powerhouse. Until two decades ago, the island had never produced a male West Indies cricketer. The island’s most famous player from the 20th century, Mindoo Phillip, never got the chance to play for the West Indies, leading to enduring debate among locals about why he was overlooked. In this context, it's extraordinary that St. Lucia has produced two of the eight men who have won multiple T20 World Cup finals. As Powell remarked, it’s an incredible feeling for Sammy and a significant opportunity for the team to perform for their local fans.
Daren Sammy is a beloved figure in St. Lucia, with a dedicated parking space at the stadium and a crowd that comes out in full force to support him. Johnson Charles, although a less universally popular figure among West Indies fans, has a stand named after him at the stadium. His recall to the national team, predating Sammy’s coaching tenure, has sparked some controversy, with whispers of favouritism and regional bias—a common issue for a team representing multiple nations. Some fans are already calling for Shai Hope to take Charles’ place, despite Charles' notable performances in franchise cricket.
The West Indies team, however, believes in Charles' ability to deliver when it matters. Powell expressed confidence in Charles' potential to make a significant impact in the World Cup, as he did recently against South Africa in Jamaica. Powell stated that the team encourages Charles to play his natural, aggressive game, understanding that while this approach may lead to failures, it also has the potential to secure victories.
Charles continues to open the batting with Brandon King, a player known for his finesse and touch. Powell stated the importance of supporting Charles and providing him with the backing he needs to succeed. He noted that no one has scored more runs than Charles at the Daren Sammy Stadium in T20 cricket, and after struggling on the slow pitches in Guyana and Trinidad, the team is eager to play on the flatter pitch in St. Lucia.
As the West Indies head into the Super Eight stage, having qualified without delivering a complete performance, they view their upcoming matches against England, the USA, and South Africa with optimism. Powell sees Monday's match against Afghanistan as a perfect opportunity for players to build confidence before the next phase of the tournament. He encouraged his team, saying it was time for Johnson Charles to shine for his fellow St. Lucians.
This World Cup holds special promise for the West Indies, with their fans eagerly awaiting the team's performances on home soil. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the support of the local crowd in St. Lucia could be a crucial factor in their quest for another title.