Daren Sammy highlights decline of West Indies’ Test side

By Parth Dhall | Oct 08, 2025 | 05:05 pm

**What’s the Story?**

Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy has drawn a stark comparison between the decline of his Test side and a “cancer” that has been developing over a long period. Speaking ahead of the second Test match against India in Delhi, Sammy reflected on the current state of West Indies cricket, highlighting both the challenges and available role models.

**Role Models Amidst Challenges**

Sammy acknowledged that in the shortest format of the game, there are role models readily available for younger players. However, he stressed that these players can only work with the resources at their disposal, which remain limited.

**Deep-Rooted Issues in West Indies Cricket**

West Indies suffered a heavy defeat in the first of the two-match Test series in India, losing by an innings and 140 runs. Ahead of the second Test, Sammy did not shy away from discussing the ongoing struggles, especially in the Test format.

“I know now I’m under the microscope. I’m in the middle, and we’re open to criticism,” he said candidly. Despite this, Sammy emphasized that these problems are not new but deeply entrenched in the system, having developed over many years.

**A Metaphorical Comparison: Cancer Analogy**

Sammy likened the issues plaguing West Indies cricket to “cancer that’s already in the system.” He explained, “If you don’t get cancer, you know what happens. Our problems don’t lie on the surface. It’s rooted deep into our system.”

He also highlighted the financial struggles faced by West Indies cricket: “The difference between the different teams, the top 3-4 teams in the world versus the bottom four. We’ve been struggling with finances for a long time.”

**Missed Commercial Opportunities**

Further, Sammy lamented missed chances for the West Indies to capitalize commercially during their heyday as the best side in the world, unlike teams such as India who leveraged their success effectively.

“We’re playing five Test matches, four months in one place, entertaining the world,” he said. However, due to a lack of management and other factors over the years, West Indies cricket is in dire need of financial resources to aid its growth.

**Woeful Numbers Highlight the Decline**

Statistics underline the extent of the struggles. According to ESPNcricinfo, West Indies have recorded 13 sub-200 totals in their last 15 Test innings. In those 15 innings, they have never batted out 90 overs or completed a full day.

Notably, the Windies have won only two Tests against India since the start of this century, with their last win dating back to 2002. Moreover, they have lost six of their last seven Tests overall.

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The challenges facing West Indies cricket remain significant and deeply rooted. Sammy’s candid remarks bring attention to the urgent need for systemic change and financial investment if the Windies are to regain their former glory.
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