Sarwan ready for major role at Number 3

Wed, Apr 29, '09

 

Ramnaresh Sarwan is looking to do all he can to help the West Indies retain the Wisden Trophy. The right-handed stroke-maker was the star performer when the Windies won the coveted trophy during the Digicel Series in the Caribbean in February and March. Now the challenge is different -- the West Indies face England on their home soil for two Test matches in May. “I’m looking forward this tour in a big way. We played really well in the Caribbean and have a good chance here. The conditions are very different to those at home, and it will be important that players who have played here before, like myself, are able to lead the team and ensure that we keep the trophy,” said the 28-year-old.

“I am just looking to do whatever is required… a good catch, a run out, a good innings and even a wicket if I am given the ball. That is the overall aim of the team, to make a contribution.”

In the Digicel Series in the West Indies, Sarwan was named Player-of-the-Series for his phenomenal batting at Number 3. He made 107 in Jamaica, 94 and 106 in Antigua and a career-best 291 in Barbados.

“This will be different challenge, everyone is aware, but we are mentally ready for the challenge. We need to continue to play as a team. We did a great job at home and that will be crucial to support each other and work for each other,” Sarwan said. “It is important that I start from scratch. I don’t want to be too far ahead of myself. I just want to concentrate on what is happening now and try to do well for the West Indies.”

The West Indies start their four-day warm-up match against the England Lions on Thursday at the County Ground, Derby. The 1st Test will be at Lord’s on May 6-10. The 2nd Test will be at Riverside Ground at Chester-le-Street, starting May 14.