“A building step for us”: WI captain Roston Chase says India tour was crucial in establishing themselves as Test-playing nation

West Indies skipper Roston Chase has called his side’s feisty efforts in the second Test versus India a “stepping stone” to resurrecting their Test cricket ambitions. The West Indies showed great resistance in their second innings, but though it delayed the inevitable by taking the match into the fifth day, they ultimately succumbed to a seven-wicket loss at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This is a monumental step up from their last visit to Ahmedabad, where they were bundled out inside of three days.

A resilient fight by West Indies in Delhi

The West Indies were made to follow on 270 runs behind in the second Test, but put up a decent fight. The team posted its highest partnership of the year (177) after centuries from John Campbell and Shai Hope. Justin Greaves and Jayden Seales frustrated the Indian attack to add useful runs in the lower order before Walter bowled the visitors out for 390 after nearly 119 overs. This was especially impressive considering the strong Indian bowling lineup, which included the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Roston Chase believes this performance is a building step for the team

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Chase emphasized the importance of this match as a foundation for future success. He stated, “This is the kind of fight that I wanted to see from us, from matches before. So, I think this is a stepping stone, a building step for us to go forward and improve as a Test-playing nation.” He believes that this display of resilience will bolster the team’s confidence and belief in their ability to compete against top-tier Test nations.

 

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Chase also mentioned that the team has room for improvement, especially in the batting department. He said that it is important for the team to score well in the first innings to compete in the World Test Championship. He also pointed out the lingering systemic issues, like predominantly the lack of first-class experience for most players, that inhibited their readiness for the step up to international cricket. Chase, however, is not deterred by these obstacles and is encouraging his team to keep pushing through with this progress.

The West Indies have an eye on a series in New Zealand next, and Chase’s captaincy and form provide some optimism for a stronger Test future.