West Indies cricket legend Brian Lara has joined the West Indies team as their performance mentor ahead of their upcoming series against India. The series will consist of two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, starting on July 12 in Dominica.
Lara, who previously served as the head coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2023 IPL season, will now provide guidance and support to the West Indies players. The addition of Lara to the team’s support staff is seen as a significant move, especially considering the team’s recent struggles.
The West Indies team is in need of a strong performance, particularly after their disappointing performance in the World Cup qualifiers. For the first time in 48 years, the two-time champions will not be participating in the ODI World Cup. Therefore, the upcoming series against India holds great importance for the West Indies team.
In their last Test series against South Africa in February-March, the West Indies suffered defeats in both matches. They finished 8th in the points table of the World Test Championship cycle 2021-23 and 6th in the inaugural cycle 2019-21. The team is eager to start the new cycle with a strong performance, and they may have an opportunity to exploit the pressure on the Indian team following their loss in the WTC final.
To prepare for the series, the West Indies team has started a preparatory camp led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite. The team is scheduled to travel to Dominica on July 9, where the first Test will take place. The second and final Test will be held in Trinidad.
For India, this series presents an opportunity to kick-start the new WTC cycle on a positive note. After losing in the final in the previous two editions, India has made some changes to their squad, indicating a transition period. The inclusion of young players in both the batting and bowling departments demonstrates their intent to build for the future.
In conclusion, Brian Lara joining the West Indies team as their performance mentor adds significant experience and expertise to their support staff. The upcoming series against India holds great importance for the West Indies team as they look to bounce back from their recent disappointments. For India, it is an opportunity to start the new WTC cycle on a positive note. Both teams will be eager to perform well and set the tone for their future endeavors in international cricket.
