Daren Sammy Encourages Players to Shine Ahead of World Cup

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy is urging his players to make their mark ahead of the T20 World Cup. The team will kick off their preparations with a three-match T20 series against Afghanistan, beginning January 19 in Dubai.

Training Camp in Dubai

The West Indies team has arrived in Dubai to undertake essential preparations. Notably, Johnson Charles will join the squad on January 17. The 16-member roster has seen several significant absences, yet this scenario paves the way for emerging talents.

World Cup Selection Opportunity

Sammy emphasized that the upcoming series against Afghanistan is crucial for World Cup selection. The T20 World Cup is slated for next month in India and Sri Lanka. He remarked, “It’s a great opportunity for some of the young players and fringe players.”

He added, “This series provides the perfect platform to build momentum for the World Cup.” With veterans like T20 captain Shai Hope and others missing, younger players such as Quentin Sampson, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer, and Amir Jangoo now have a significant chance to shine.

Focus on Roles and Preparation

While the primary goal is victory, Sammy has outlined a key mission for his coaching staff. He aims to ensure each player understands their role within the squad leading up to the T20 World Cup. The challenges posed by the Afghan side will offer valuable experience, mirroring the conditions expected during the tournament.

Building Momentum

Sammy concluded with an optimistic outlook for the upcoming year. Despite an incomplete roster, the team strives to establish a solid foundation. He is hopeful that players will seize this opportunity to make meaningful contributions before the World Cup.