'Things Will Change...': Roston Chase Hopes For A Better Tomorrow In West Indies Cricket

The West Indies were known for Test cricket in the 1970s and ’80s — probably the only team in the world that scared opponents with the red ball. Their bowling attack had a fearsome group of Andy Roberts, Michael Holding (called “Whispering Death”), Joel Garner, and Colin Croft, with the fiery Malcolm Marshall also making it stronger.

There were also great batsmen like Vivian Richards, Gordon Greenidge, and Desmond Haynes, who were as ruthless as the fast bowlers. At the head of the team was the strong and commanding Clive Lloyd.

From Glory to Decline

Even through the 1990s, the West Indies remained a strong team. Brian Lara became the face of Caribbean cricket, while Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh carried on the legacy of the island’s fearsome fast bowlers.

But in the 2000s, things changed. The West Indies lost their dominance in Test cricket, even though they did better in limited-overs games. Their cricket system began to fail, affecting players’ earnings. With the rise of franchise cricket, mainly in India and then worldwide, Caribbean players became very popular. Many stars started choosing franchise teams over the iconic maroon jersey of the West Indies.

Recently, their performance against India in the Ahmedabad Test was worrying. India won by an innings and 140 runs in just two-and-a-half days. Roston Chase’s team had not even recovered when Lara criticized Cricket West Indies, questioning the players’ intent.

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Sammy Speaks on Legacy and Financial Struggles

“If you want to get things done, you need the resources to do it. But more importantly, I want to ask Roston Chase and the others: do they have cricket at heart? Do they really want to play for the West Indies? That is the most important,” Lara said during the CEAT Cricket Rating awards.

West Indies coach Darren Sammy responded to Lara’s comment. Sammy said the West Indies shaped world cricket from the 1970s to the 1990s but never got the financial rewards like countries such as India.

“Today, everyone leans towards the way we play now. But if we look at the impact West Indies had in international cricket, I think we deserve what we ask for,” Sammy said.

“The team of Vivian Richards inspired generations, even here in India. We played long Test series, entertaining the world, while others benefited financially. We need those resources to grow and move forward. We deserve that because of our impact,” he added.

Chase’s Pride and Vision for Change

Money is important, but mindset matters more. Captain Roston Chase, who chose country over franchise cricket, is proud to wear the maroon jersey and believes change is possible.

“We had a team event yesterday, and I spoke with Lara and Viv Richards. They told me to keep believing — we may be down now, but things will change,” Chase said.

“That change starts now, with the belief and mindset of every player. My goal is to motivate the team so we can play positive cricket and improve our situation,” he added.

Chase did not comment much on players leaving international cricket for T20 leagues. Instead, he focused on his pride in representing the West Indies.

“For me, playing for the West Indies has always been a dream. I could have played franchise cricket, but I chose my country. Being captain is a big responsibility, and I want to give my all for the maroon jersey,” he said.

As Sammy said, financial issues and lack of quality are “a cancer deep in the system.” While West Indies cricket has declined, its rich history and legacy remain important to the country’s cricket fraternity.