Former West Indies seamer, Kenny Benjamin has jumped to the defence of Rahkeem Cornwall’s bowling action which came under scrutiny recently from former world record holder for the most test wickets Lance Gibbs.
The 27-year-old Cornwall was recently the target of criticism from legendary spin bowler Gibbs, who said that he doubted whether the off- spinner could be truly successful with a short run-up of two steps.
Gibbs, speaking on the Barbados radio programme, Mason and Guests was critical of the current crop of regional spinners in general who he insisted did not turn the ball enough.
On Tuesday night, Benjamin, who functions as the West Indies
Under-19 assistant coach was featured on the same programme and defended his Antigua countryman.
“What he [Gibbs] spoke about Rahkeem Cornwall bowling off of two steps, that is one of Rahkeem’s strengths, no rhythm, he hurries the batsmen, he gets through his balls quickly,” Benjamin stated. The 53-year-old Benjamin, who featured in 26 Tests for the Caribbean side, did not stop there but went on to question Gibb’s awareness of the modern game.
“The fact that Lance Gibbs has concerns goes to show you how far out of the game he is. Lance Gibbs at 85 years I don’t think he
is in tune with what is going on in modern-day cricket,” Benjamin opined.
Fellow Antigua and West Indies legend, Curtly Ambrose, has already offered his take on the situation by encouraging the spinner to keep focussed and to get the job done his way. Since bursting on the scene a few years ago, Cornwall has had some measure of success at the regional level but has also faced criticism for his weight.
