West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has expressed strong confidence in his team’s capacity to mount a serious challenge against New Zealand in the impending two-match Test series, commencing December 1 at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval. Despite recent setbacks in the limited-overs leg of the tour, Sammy emphasized the measurable progress and competitive spirit his squad demonstrated.
The Caribbean side arrives at the Test arena following defeats in both the five-match T20 International and three-match One Day International series against the Black Caps. However, Sammy’s analysis extends beyond the final results, highlighting that the team was competitively positioned to win five of the seven total white-ball games. He credited New Zealand for their formidable home record while underscoring the positive developments within his own unit, particularly their improved ability to handle the new ball and make critical decisions under pressure—key performance indicators for the longer format.
Addressing the historical challenge, Sammy acknowledged that the West Indies have not secured a Test victory on New Zealand soil since 1995. He identified the primary objective as not just winning, but first establishing sustained competitiveness. The coach reported exceptionally high intensity in training sessions, indicating a positive and immediate reaction from the players to the team’s strategic objectives.
On the selection front, the West Indies will be without the bowling services of both Alzzari Joseph and Shamar Joseph for the series. While admitting their absence diminishes the team’s firepower, Sammy pointed to the influx of eager young talent, such as Jayden Seales and Ojay Shields, who are prepared to step up. Ultimately, Sammy concluded that success will hinge on translating a positive mindset and rigorous preparation into flawless execution on the field, a principle he championed throughout his own playing and captaincy career.