Hope renewed

IT HAS been a couple of days since Sabina Park witnessed one of the darkest days in its cricket history following the humiliating loss to Australia in the third and final Test.

The number 27 will forever be etched in the minds of many, as that was the score the regional side posted in their second innings against a ruthless Aussie attack, led by Mitchell Starc.

While the West Indies will be happy to see the back of Starc, they are well aware that the youthful Australian T20 side will still pose a problem, as the teams start the first of a five-match series, with the first ball set for 7 tonight.

With head coach Daren Sammy leaving the team to attend to a family bereavement, assistant coach Floyd Reifer will stand in.

In the meantime, West Indies captain Shai Hope is determined to kick off the upcoming series on a high note while giving retiring all-rounder Andre Russell a memorable send-off.

Speaking ahead of the opening match, Hope emphasised the importance of maintaining their strong home record.

“It’s very important for us. We tend to defend home court really well, something we’ve been doing consistently in 50-over and T20 cricket. The guys have been putting in the hard work, and even though we’re not yet a complete group, everyone brings valuable experience. There’s a lot to look forward to this season as we build towards the 2026 World Cup.”

It’s understood that not all the players in the squad have arrived in Jamaica, and it is a mystery as to which eleven will take the field come game time. One player who will be on the park, is fan favourite Russell.

The series will mark the farewell for the T20 legend whose impact on the game has been immense.

TRIBUTE

Hope paid tribute to the veteran, saying: “He’s one of those names you can’t leave out when talking about T20 cricket. He’s been a great guy to have around, fun, full of knowledge, and a massive part of our success, including those two World Cup wins. We’ll miss him dearly, and we want to send him off on a high note here in Jamaica.”

The Jamaican fans may not know a lot of the Australian players who will walk out under lights at Sabina Park, with names such as Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis and Jake Fraser-McGurk not ringing a bell.

However, Hope acknowledged the challenge posed by Australia, the world’s second-ranked side.

“We can’t write them off. They’ve proven why they’re among the best. After that tough Test series loss, we have to raise our game. The past is behind us; we need to focus on our strengths rather than just the opposition. They’re quality players, and even though we’ve been strong at home, nothing is guaranteed. We have to bring our best cricket, start well, and finish even stronger.”