Daren Sammy Calls West Indies’ Test Cricket Decline a ‘Cancer in the System’
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has delivered a brutally honest assessment of the state of Test cricket in the Caribbean, describing its decline as a “cancer” that has been spreading within the system for decades.
Sammy, who famously led West Indies to two T20 World Cup titles, said that while there is no shortage of heroes and inspiration in the shorter formats, the red-ball game continues to suffer from deep-rooted issues that go beyond on-field performance.
The remarks came after West Indies suffered a crushing innings and 140-run defeat to India in the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, last week — a result that has once again reignited conversations about the future of Caribbean Test cricket.
“I mean, last time we won a Test series in 1983, my mother had me,” Sammy said with a touch of humor, referencing the 42-year drought.
“I know now I’m under the microscope. I’m in the middle, and we’re open to criticism, to be criticised by everybody. But the root of the problem didn’t start two years ago. It’s something that started way back.”
The former all-rounder’s candid acknowledgment painted a grim but realistic picture of how long-term neglect, mismanagement, and financial struggles have hollowed out the once-great cricketing powerhouse.
“It’s Like a Cancer in the System”
Sammy didn’t mince words while describing the magnitude of the issue.
“It’s like a cancer that’s already in the system. If you do get cancer, you know what happens. And, again, it’s breast cancer month, so it’s a good way to put it. Our problems don’t lie on the surface. It’s rooted deep into our system.”
The coach noted that Test cricket in the Caribbean hasn’t been given the financial or infrastructural backing it deserves. Players are drawn more toward the lucrative T20 leagues, and domestic Test structures lack investment.
West Indies’ Struggles in India Continue
The first Test against India once again exposed West Indies’ red-ball weaknesses. Batting first, the visitors were bundled out for just 162 runs, with India replying strongly at 448/5 declared, taking a mammoth 286-run lead.
In the second innings, the Caribbean side collapsed again for 146, losing the match within just two and a half days. The heavy defeat left the team demoralized and drew criticism from legends like Brian Lara, who questioned the players’ commitment to the format.
Financial Struggles and Lack of Resources
Sammy acknowledged that the team is operating with limited resources compared to top cricketing nations.
“We could only work with what we have and who’s willing. The inability to match some of the franchises across the world has been an issue,” Sammy admitted.
“If we complain about not having the best facilities, not having enough manpower like the other teams, not having the best technology… it’s no secret. The difference between the top 3-4 teams in the world and the bottom four is massive.”
He further revealed that West Indies legends Brian Lara and Shivnarine Chanderpaul are now working to attract sponsorships to revive the Test structure and support young cricketers across the region.
Player Availability and Systemic Gaps
Sammy also shared his frustration over player availability for Test duty.
“When I call a player and tell him that he’s been selected for West Indies, I’m hoping he accepts the selection. That’s where we are now,” he said, highlighting the challenge of balancing franchise commitments and national duty.
Missed Commercial Opportunities
Sammy lamented how West Indies, once the most dominant side in world cricket, failed to capitalize commercially during their glory years.
“When we were the best team in the world, we couldn’t press home the commercial benefits like India did. Other boards benefitted while we entertained the world. Now, years later, we are struggling financially to sustain our cricket,” he remarked.
