West Indies legend Ian Bishop advised the players to use the final Test at Edgbaston as an opportunity to learn and recover from their 241-run loss to England in the second Test, especially with South Africa touring the Caribbean in August.
Despite a brilliant fightback in the first innings led by Kavem Hodge, Alick Athanaze, and Joshua Da Silva, which gave WI a 41-run lead over England, they scored 416 runs in the first innings, but a dramatic collapse in the final hour meant the West Indies lost the Richards-Botham Trophy in the second Test at Trent Bridge on Sunday.
After a strong start, the team’s collapse left spectators reeling and ended the contest disappointingly.
The West Indies’ chase of a daunting 385-run total began with promise as skipper Kraigg Brathwaite struck an aggressive 47 and opening partner Mikyle Louis (17) handled England’s seam bowlers’ new-ball spell. After one hour, the visitors reached 61 without loss, with no sign of the collapse that followed.
Mikyle Louis was caught by the wicket-keeper on the first ball after the drinks break from Chris Woakes (2-28), ending the West Indies’ momentum.
This prompted a remarkable meltdown, as the visitors lost an astonishing 10 wickets for just 82 runs, ultimately being bowled for a lowly 142. Their fate was decided when they lost the Test with a day to fall 2-0 in the three-match series.
Bishop, in his message, advised the players to stay positive and look to learn from their mistakes. He advised the team to use the loss as an opportunity to progress rather than dwell on it.
“If the guys could hear me now. They have to lift themselves up. I know it’s hard, and I know maybe a lot of the mental energy was drained by their application with the bat in that first innings amazing total and the type of capitulation in the second innings, but Edgbaston is vital to continue learning,” Bishop said in a video shared by Windies cricket.
Bishop implored the players to preserve their spirits. Defeats can be depressing, but it’s vital to regroup and focus on the challenges ahead. Bishop reminded the youthful players of the significance of representing the West Indies with passion and pride. Wearing the maroon cap is a big honour, and the team should strive to give their all on the field.
Looking ahead, Bishop stressed the importance of the impending series against South Africa. This series gives a perfect opportunity for the West Indies to bounce back and reclaim some much-needed confidence.
“The Richard Boltham Trophy goes to England, but then there’s a South African series on the back end. So you, one to one, know you represent the people of the West Indies. In every game, you play with pride. And that should be enough to invigorate you and if that’s not enough, you’re coming up against South Africa in less than a week or approximately a week’s time later on. And you want to go there with confidence. So there’s still a lot to play for a team that’s still learning,” he added
South Africa will be touring Caribbean for a two-match series from August 7 onwards.
“Edgbaston is important to continue learning.”@irbishi shares his thoughts on the next match being as important as the last.#ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/6ZXpdi6k4b
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 23, 2024