Bishop Blames W.I Mental Approach

Former Test pacer Ian Bishop believes the "psychological" aspect of touring assignments are responsible for the poor West Indies record when they travel.

As India crushed the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium by an innings and 112 runs on Saturday to snatch a 1-0 lead in the three- match series, Bishop said there is a vast difference between the team's performances in the Caribbean against overseas. "Psychologically, I don't think they were up to it...they don't have those familiar pillars of strength to fall back on while they are at home," Bishop said.

The defeat was an exasperating 24th in the last 28 Test matches on tour stretching from their 1997 3-0 loss to Pakistan, when Bishop was part of the squad.

"When the guys are at home they have their families, they have their friends around them and they obviously seem to be able to overcome whatever hurdles and obstacles present themselves, they are more resilient at home," Bishop said.

The 34-year-old Trinidadian, who is covering the series as a television commentator, said the players have not handled the conditions well, starting with the extreme heat that greeted them at practice for the opening Test.

SOURCE: Trinidad Guardian.