West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has addressed criticism regarding the selection of 19-year-old left-arm wristspinner Vitel Lawes, asserting that the team management followed rigorous internal processes to prepare the youngster for international cricket. Despite Lawes having no prior senior experience in any format before being called up for the ODI series against New Zealand, Sammy maintained that the decision was well-calculated. Lawes concluded the five-match series, which New Zealand won 3-2, with eight wickets at an average of 28.50, demonstrating significant turn and variety.
Sammy expressed pride in the teenager's performance, noting that the coaching staff, including former spinner Nikita Miller, worked extensively to ensure Lawes was ready for the top level. Addressing those who questioned the selection, Sammy stated that the team did not pick the player out of emotion, but rather followed a development roadmap that included several other young prospects. He praised Lawes for his ability to look like he belonged on the big stage during his debut series.
The West Indies finished the series on a high note with a confidence-boosting win in the final match on Tuesday, successfully chasing a target of 269. The victory was anchored by strong performances from middle-order batters Sherfane Rutherford and Shimron Hetmyer, both of whom scored 60s. While Sammy was pleased with their maturity and execution, he emphasized the need for greater consistency from both players moving forward, noting that it remains a constant battle for the team to determine how long to persist with talented but inconsistent performers.
Looking ahead, the West Indies are preparing for a Test series against Pakistan, scheduled to begin in Tarouba this Saturday. The team is currently monitoring the fitness of red-ball captain Roston Chase, who was sidelined for the New Zealand ODIs due to a laceration and contusion on his right index finger. Although Sammy described the finger as still being puffy, he expressed optimism that team physio Denis Byam would have the captain ready to compete in the opening Test.
"And Lawes, after the series, I said, you know, I'm really proud of him to come out [with] eight wickets, looking like he belongs in the game and especially [with] us trying to develop players. Really proud of what he's done in his debut series."
Vitel LawesDaren SammySherfane RutherfordShimron HetmyerRoston ChaseWest IndiesWest Indies vs New ZealandPakistan tour of West IndiesNew Zealand tour of West Indies
