Coach Rayon Griffith of the Cricket West Indies Academy is stressing the value of consistency and ongoing development for his team as they get ready to play Emerging Ireland in a two-match first-class series.
The CWI Academy is preparing for the first of two first-class matches that will begin at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) on Saturday. The Academy recently emerged victorious in the One-day series against Emerging Ireland, 2-1. Coach Griffith is expecting his team to improve upon their One-day series performances and is setting higher expectations.
Griffith underlined that the batsmen must make major contributions, with a special emphasis on century-makers. He said he wanted to see players reach hundreds of runs, bat for several sessions, and show that they could be in charge of a game. Griffith emphasized the significance of players developing not just on the field but also in terms of character and personal development.
Griffith acknowledged the disappointment of losing the first game in the recently finished One-day series, but he also commended the team’s tenacity and resolve in rallying to win the series. He observed that the young athletes showed bravery and the appropriate frame of mind to bounce back from the early setback.
Throughout the series, Joshua Bishop, a left-arm spinner, shown control and talent, and Griffith praised his steady performance. He also emphasized the poise of Matthew Nandu, the left-handed opener, who performed admirably at the top of the order in spite of difficult circumstances that suited bowlers.
Guyanese pace bowler Isai Thorne, known for his hostility and penetration during the West Indies Under-19 tour to Sri Lanka in August, has been added to the CWI Academy squad for the upcoming red-ball matches. Thorne’s inclusion adds depth to the squad’s bowling options, providing additional firepower.\
Both teams will get excellent playing time and a chance to put their skills to the test against one another during the series versus Emerging Ireland. It provides a venue for upcoming players to demonstrate their skills and advance their cricket careers.
Coach Griffith and his crew are excited to take on the challenges that lie ahead as the CWI Academy turns its attention to the red-ball format and continue their journey of development and advancement in the sport.
