Legendary West Indies captain Brian Lara has known as on the present era of gamers to reignite their ardour and starvation for representing the Caribbean in Take a look at cricket. Talking on the CEAT Cricket Score Awards, Lara emphasised that it isn’t tactical modifications or infrastructure enhancements that can make the distinction, however the perspective and dedication gamers convey to the sport.
“I want to urge Roston Chase and the opposite guys to (inform), have they got cricket at coronary heart? Do they actually wish to play for West Indies? And that’s the most vital factor, since you would discover a manner. You’ll discover a manner,” Lara mentioned, directing his message to the present Take a look at skipper forward of the second Take a look at in opposition to India in Delhi.
Lara highlighted the distinction between the previous and current, declaring that earlier West Indies greats like Viv Richards achieved success regardless of modest services.
“We didn’t have higher services 30-40 years in the past. Viv Richards did not bat on any higher follow pitches or something. We needed to do the identical factor, the identical grind, however the ardour was totally different. The fervour to play for West Indies was totally different,” he mentioned, urging younger gamers to understand the chance to symbolize their area.
The veteran cricketer additionally questioned the viability of Take a look at cricket outdoors the “Massive Three” nations, highlighting challenges confronted by smaller cricketing nations in drawing crowds and sponsorships. Citing the primary Take a look at in opposition to India, which resulted in simply three days at a virtually empty Ahmedabad Stadium, Lara confused that producing fan curiosity is essential for the survival of the normal format.
“Once you have a look at the Massive Three, you have a look at England versus Australia within the Ashes, or simply lately, India enjoying in Australia or India enjoying in England, and you’ll suppose that there isn’t a larger day of cricket to observe,” Lara mentioned. “I’ve watched India versus England at Lord’s and there may be nothing to match it. I hope that Take a look at cricket doesn’t die, however the viability of it in different nations, the smaller nations you are actually and really testing theirs. funds.”
Lara concluded by emphasizing options over despair, noting that whereas curiosity in Exams within the West Indies might presently be low, the main target must be on discovering methods to encourage gamers and followers alike.
“I might moderately wish to discover a resolution to the issue than to say, ‘I surrender and that is the top of it.’ In the event you’re not doing properly as a nation and if one thing else is popping up that is extra thrilling, you may see it within the crowds.”
For Lara, reviving West Indies Take a look at cricket isn’t about higher services or infrastructure—it begins with ardour, delight, and the willingness of gamers to place their coronary heart into the sport.
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