Kraigg Brathwaite Encourages Young West Indies Batsmen to Aim High

In the upcoming Lord's Test, four of West Indies' potential top-six batsmen have played 10 Tests or fewer. Despite the evident lack of experience, captain Kraigg Brathwaite remains optimistic. He advises the young players to "think big" and aspire to great achievements.

Brathwaite's message to the debutants, including Mikyle, is to aim high and not just settle for playing for West Indies but strive to be the first to score 30 centuries. On the eve of the first Test at Lord's, he encouraged the team to believe in their plans and enjoy the series in England.

Brathwaite pinpointed the importance of allowing the young batsmen to develop their own style without imposing his approach. He acknowledged his preference for taking his time at the crease but stressed that each batsman should play their natural game and back their strategies. The focus, he said, is on ensuring they fight hard and support each other's unique styles.

He noted that the young batting lineup has ample time to learn the nuances of Test cricket, which requires continuous learning. Brathwaite expressed confidence in the team's potential, highlighting the promising performances of players like Kirk McKenzie, who scored fifties in Australia, Hodge, who achieved a solid 80, and Alick, who showed consistency. He assured that the team is fully supportive of these talented young players.

Reflecting on West Indies' historic Test victory in Brisbane earlier this year, Brathwaite acknowledged the positives but urged the team to focus on future challenges. He accentuated the importance of consistent performance, recalling the crucial partnerships and outstanding efforts by the bowlers in that match. However, he insisted that while past victories are encouraging, the team must concentrate on the upcoming series and believe in their ability to succeed.

Brathwaite's leadership focuses on encouraging the team to learn, grow, and maintain a positive mindset as they face England in the Test series.