KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Fidel Edwards said he has a love affair with Sabina Park, calling it a “home away from home”.
The 29-year-old fast bowler is hoping to force his way into the West Indies 11 for the first Test against India, starting today at the ground.
Edwards has fond memories of the ground, having made a fairy-tale debut eight years ago against Sri Lanka, and bowling West Indies to a sensational victory
“I have always loved bowling at Sabina Park,” he said. “For me, it’s like a second home [ground]…I would say a home away from home.
“I’ve had some success here with the ball for West Indies as well as for Barbados, and I’m looking for even more success, if the selectors name me in the 11.”
He added: “I played my first Test match here, and did very well. In that game, I got five [wickets] in the first innings, and six in the match, and that really was great.
“The crowd here in Jamaica is very good, and really supports the West Indies team, and that’s always something you can feed off as a player.”
Edwards had been sidelined with a back injury for the last two years, and is eager to make his return.
He said he is eyeing a successful comeback to the international stage, following his rehabilitation.
“I am bowling far better, in more consistent areas, and swinging a lot more than before,” he said.
“I am training a lot harder, gym a lot, strengthening my back, my legs, my muscles, my weak areas a lot.
“I now need to take it step by step. I have bowled long spells in February and March; I remember a really long spell against England Lions, and I have been injury free.”
Edwards has played 43 Tests for West Indies, making him the most experienced bowler in the current squad.
He has taken 122 wickets, with best figures of seven for 87 against New Zealand three years ago at Napier.
