West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican (AP)
Ahmedabad: Jomel Warrican meticulously practiced his bowling action for approximately 35 minutes during the West Indies’ net session at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday. This intense routine was part of the team’s preparations for the first of their two-match Test series against India, set to commence on Thursday. Warrican explained that this was to refine his action, ensuring he could put more power into his delivery and impart greater spin on the ball.
The 33-year-old left-arm spinner understands the immense responsibility he carries for the West Indies to perform competitively in the series. He finds encouragement in the past performances of other spinners who have excelled in India, such as Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel. Both bowlers achieved impressive 10-wicket hauls in Pune and Mumbai respectively, leading New Zealand to memorable victories.
Left-arm finger spin, especially the faster variations, has historically posed significant challenges for Indian batsmen, even on their home turf. The red-soil pitch, which will be used for the first Test, could prove to be a major ally for Warrican if he can maintain accuracy in his bowling. There’s also a possibility that he might be joined by his spin partner, Khary Pierre. Pierre, a seasoned first-class cricketer known for his precision and speed, is hopeful of making his Test debut and earning the prestigious maroon cap, bearing the number 341.
Warrican is eager to share insights from his previous tour to India in 2018 with Pierre. He recalls, “On Day Three and Four, the ball begins to turn considerably. First innings runs are going to be absolutely vital.”
To ensure a solid batting performance, coach Darren Sammy has organized an intensive six-day training camp for his squad. The West Indies arrived in Ahmedabad on September 24th, engaging in two full-day sessions focused on batting techniques. Warrican revealed, “Batters practiced a lot of sweeps, defensive strokes, pulling off the back foot, and lofted strokes.”
Throughout his 10-year career, Warrican has played only 21 Tests, securing 73 wickets, including two impressive five-wicket hauls. Both of these notable performances occurred in Multan in January against Pakistan. While a sensational spell of 7-32 did not secure a victory for the West Indies, in the subsequent Test, though, he contributed significantly with figures of 4/43 and 5/27, along with an unbeaten 36 runs, guiding the West Indies to a rare away win.
If the red-soil pitch in Ahmedabad behaves as expected, much like other red-soil pitches across India, Warrican is confident of adding more five-wicket hauls to his collection.