As West Indies prepare to face New Zealand later this month, an otherwise important series for the Caribbean side could have an even greater significance for a few key members in their side.
One such player under the microscope is opener, John Campbell who has struggled in recent times.
The 27-year-old has just one half century from his nine-Test career and averages 25.46. These numbers are not surprising since in First-Class cricket, the Jamaican left-hander averages 29.46
Chief selector, Roger Harper, has also suggested that Campbell could be under the pump by stating that there was a lot of debate on his inclusion in the side as he announced the squad.
He stated, “[it is] another opportunity to cement his place in the team and show what he can do…”
Adding to Campbell’s woes is also the consistent calls for the inclusion of Joshua Da Silva.
Among those calling for his inclusion is West Indies legend, Clive Lloyd.
“We have the guy Da Silva, I think he can act as an opener or groom him as an opener. He looked a good compact sort of player,” Lloyd remarked on the Mason and Guest radio programme recently.
The calls for Da Silva’s inclusion amplified after he stroked the lone ton at the top of the order, albeit in the practice match by a West Indian on tour to England a few months ago.
Despite that, he is still relegated to the Test reserves as West Indies named two openers in their Test squad.
Harper also noted that the opening spot has been a cause of concern with the other being Kraigg Brathwaite who averages 22 in the last three years.
Da Silva’s case ahead of Campbell or Brathwaite could further be strengthened owing to his ability to play as a second choice wicketkeeper in the event that Shane Dowrich, who has had his issues in the past, is unable to fulfill his duties behind the stumps.
With the Maroon boys likely to face Bangladesh in the first quarter of 2021, a poor run by any of the two openers could pave the way for Da Silva’s debut in the new year.
