At a time when Windies cricket has been struggling financially, West Indies veteran Ian Bishop praised the national team’s outstanding triumph over Bangladesh in the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, on Saturday. With eight wickets remaining, West Indies chased down 170 in the first Test of the two-match series. This was another impressive performance for the side that had just drawn a five-match T20I series with two-time defending T20 world champions India in their home country.
Ian Bishop, a former fast bowler for the West Indies, called the outcome “a big triumph for West Indies cricket.”Bishop said that Bangladesh “is no longer an easy team to defeat, especially at home,” recognising the hosts’ increasing potency at home. Bishop used the financial challenges that cricket has in the Caribbean as a backdrop for his appreciation. Given the financial difficulties cricket has in the area, he added the players “had to be recognised for their passion and professionalism.” He also congratulated “Roston Chase’s men” and mentioned, “one more test to go.”
In a social media post, Bishop said, “This is a significant victory for West Indies cricket. Bangladesh is no longer an easy team to defeat, especially at home. Given the financial challenges faced by cricket in the region, the players have to be lauded for their commitment and professionalism. One more test to go, but well to Roston Chase’s men.”
Financial difficulties have been plaguing Windies cricket. A 25% salary reduction for players is part of a financial restructure that Cricket West Indies announced last month. Super50 and the Women’s T20 Blaze, two forthcoming tournaments, have also been postponed. Head coach Daren Sammy recently urged the players to finish strongly in the World Test Championship cycle, emphasising that great results can aid in their negotiations with the board.
