Former West Indies fast bowler Winston Benjamin, who is set to take up the Head Coach position for the upcoming cricket season, has provided deep insights into the development of two key West Indies cricket talents while sharing his views on the current state of West Indies cricket.
Speaking on the Good Morning Jojo Sports Show, Benjamin expressed his thoughts on Darren Sammy’s appointment as the chief selector of the West Indies team as he is set to be Head Coach of all three formats.
While acknowledging Sammy’s achievements as a two-time T20 World Cup-winning captain, Benjamin emphasized that selection duties require a distinct skill set, particularly highlighting the need for comprehensive regional cricket knowledge.
When discussing young wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew, Benjamin offered a detailed analysis of the player’s mindset and potential. “Joel has a different mentality than a lot of people,” Benjamin observed. “He has no fear. He does not think that there’s anything that he cannot do. He challenges himself to be the best.”
Benjamin acknowledged that Andrew needs to adapt to the professional level, noting: “It’s just that there are one or two little areas that he has to master. And realizing that you’re not playing against schoolboys no more. You’re playing against grown men who are gonna figure you out, do their analysis on your game.”
The former pacer expressed particular admiration for Andrew’s self-belief, suggesting that his unique mentality sets him apart from other talented young players.
“With that kind of mentality, it’s a possibility that he’s gonna accomplish whatever goals he set out to in the line of cricket,” Benjamin stated.
Regarding fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, Benjamin offered a nuanced perspective on the player’s current situation.
“Alzarri definitely understands the game, knows what he is about,” he said. “I think frustration might be his biggest enemy right now. But I have no doubt that he’s gonna overcome whatever issue that he’s dealing with at the moment.”
Benjamin disagreed with the notion that Joseph’s break from international cricket would be beneficial, explaining,
“Not necessarily, you know. Because he’s gonna go and play cricket. If it was a break from cricket altogether, then I would say yes.” He defended Joseph’s commitment to West Indies cricket, noting how the fast bowler has always “played for West Indies with his heart on his sleeve, never shirk.”
Speaking about recent controversies surrounding Joseph, Benjamin took a protective stance:
“I don’t know why people are like that. But hey, you know, I keep away from that story for more reason than one. So, all I’m saying to AJ, you know, just take your time and reflect.”
As he prepares to take the helm at Pigotts Crushers, Benjamin who runs the Grassroots Cricket Academy based in Clare Hall, maintained his focus on nurturing young talent while emphasizing the importance of proper player development in West Indies cricket.
His insights into both Andrew and Joseph reflect a deep understanding of not just the technical aspects of the game, but also the mental challenges facing young cricketers in the modern era.