Sulieman Benn Advocates for Investment in West Indies Cricket Development
Investment Needed for Cricket's Future
Dubai [UAE], October 8: Sulieman Benn, a former spinner for the West Indies, emphasized the importance of increased financial and infrastructural support to enhance the transition from grassroots cricket to the senior level.
He expressed optimism about the inherent talent within the West Indies team, asserting that they can reclaim their former glory once key logistical issues are resolved.
Historically, the West Indies were a powerhouse in cricket, but they have struggled with consistency in recent years. It has been ten years since the men's team last secured an ICC trophy, with their last victory occurring at the 2016 ICC World Twenty20.
Benn shared his thoughts during the World Championship of Legends (WCL), where he is representing the West Indies Champions.
"To bridge the gap between grassroots cricket and the senior team, we require both financial and infrastructural resources. It's crucial to facilitate a smooth transition for players moving through the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 levels into the senior squad. Achieving this necessitates the right investments and resources," Benn stated.
"The West Indies have always been rich in cricketing talent; it's in our DNA. While there are logistical challenges to address, I am confident that once these issues are resolved, we will rise to the top again," he added.
Benn noted that the West Indies displayed promising performances during the recent ODI series against India but were hindered by their bowling and fielding. He highlighted the need for improved execution, particularly in understanding when to attack for wickets and when to defend and build pressure.
India triumphed 2-1 in the three-match ODI series against the West Indies. The first ODI saw India winning by eight wickets at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, with 50 balls remaining. They followed this with another eight-wicket victory in the second match at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on September 30, finishing with 39 balls to spare.
The West Indies managed to avoid a clean sweep in the third ODI at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on October 3, successfully chasing down the target to secure a five-wicket win with 10 balls left.
"We had some commendable performances, but our bowling fell short. We need to be more decisive about when to attack for wickets and when to defend and build pressure. Our fielding also needs improvement. We have talented bowlers; we just need to execute our strategies more effectively," he concluded.
In related news, Ajay Sethi, the owner of West Champions, credited his extensive professional relationships and friendships with former cricketers and global personalities for uniting several iconic players. He acknowledged that his strong network, built over 25 years, made this initiative possible.
"It's not particularly difficult; it comes down to the approach. Having been in this business for a long time, I've had the chance to meet many individuals through my work and develop personal connections. Over the past 25 years, I've formed friendships with people worldwide—Australia, England, South Africa, and Pakistan. Imran Khan is also a close friend. When you've been in the industry for so long and built those relationships, it becomes easier," Sethi remarked.
The West Indies Champions team is captained by Chris Gayle and features a lineup of seasoned players, including Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Bravo, Carlos Brathwaite, and Chadwick Walton. The squad also comprises Jermaine Blackwood, Raymon Reifer, and Rayad Emrit, with a bowling attack that includes the experienced Fidel Edwards, Sulieman Benn, and Dave Mohammed.