Dear Editor,
It evoked great pride and a sense of validation to see the wonderful display of power hitting and smart cricket by Shimron Hetmyer our Guyanese and West Indian youngster in the second ODI. I have been watching his progress and felt he had enormous talent and potential. I believe that the West Indies is also showing resurgence in the test format and ODIs because of the young team we now have. Clive Lloyd’s belief in Jason Holder is paying off as he is showing maturity as captain and in his game. I feel it is important to groom and encourage our younger players.
Shane Dowrich is another gritty player. Rovman Powell and Keemo Paul are other players who can rise to greatness. I do hope that Shimron keeps a steady mind and focusses on his game. He is young and distractions can affect his progress. There is enormous pressure on cricketers.
Our Cricket Board should see that Shimron obtains guidance from senior West Indian players who show interest in supporting young cricketers. Lance Gibbs, Courtney Walsh and Chanderpaul are among players who have shown interest in fostering the game for our youths. Having them formalized as a team of cricket mentors would be of value. All those who were behind the development of Shimron need to be praised for his great performances. His coaches. His parents, dad Gladstone and his brother Seon. I also wish to take this opportunity to commend Scotia Bank for its investment in youth cricket across the Caribbean.
Yours faithfully,
Dr. Davendra Anand
Sharma
St. Kitts and Nevis
