Windies urged to enhance reputation against Aussies
The West Indies cricket team will be up and ready for the challenge when they face Australia in the upcoming Test series which starts next week in Jamaica.
Speaking during the team's ongoing camp in Antigua, Head Coach of the West Indies team, John Dyson, said he believes the matches will provide a wealth of opportunities for his players.
Dyson also noted that the experienced players will have crucial roles as the Windies seek to battle the visitors in the three Test matches, five One-Day Internationals, and the T20 International.
He acknowledged that the "less high profile players" should see the series as a "golden opportunity".
"This is the time for our guys to play their best cricket.
"This is a really great opportunity for them. As I look at the main players it is a chance to further enhance their reputations," Dyson said.
"When you look at the less high profile players, it is a golden opportunity for them to put their hands up and say: 'I have arrived', and really put some big numbers on the board.
He added: "I have been telling them this is the time to really deliver and be counted, and what better occasion than against the best side in the world and in front of your supporters on home turf. If everyone delivers the team will surely benefit."
The West Indies camp started on Monday and according to Dyson, the players have worked hard on getting ready for the Digicel Home Series 2008.
The 1st Digicel Test match will be at Sabina Park, Jamaica from May 22-26.
"We played well against Sri Lanka and we want to continue the work which we started there. We know the quality of players we will be up against but know we have quality on our side as well and we will be competitive and confident against the Australians," Dyson said.
The highlight of the West Indies camp will be a two-day match at the Stanford Ground on Friday and Saturday.
So far the players have been involved in intense net sessions, fielding session, gym and pool work, video and computer analysis, as well as personal development.
"The camp has been a good awakener for everyone.
"A lot of the players are back in the groove now and will be ready when that first ball is bowled," Dyson said.