Gibson hails new Windies fighting spirit

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC):

West Indies head coach Ottis Gibson has commended the new fighting spirit in the side and has hailed the resilience of the lower order, following their 40-run win over Pakistan in the first Test last Sunday.

"The way we batted out the first day, and the way we understood how difficult it was going to be, showed me that everyone understood what was happening," said Gibson.

"In the past, given the nature of the pitch, we would probably have capitulated, but to hang in there and battle all day on the first day was what probably set us up for the fight we showed in the next three days."

In both innings, West Indies recovered from shaky positions to add precious runs, which gave their bowlers breathing space when Pakistan batted.

exceptional lower-order batting

Tottering at 175 for eight in the first innings, the last two wickets added 51 as the Windies got 226, with tail-ender Kemar Roach scoring 24.

In the second innings, West Indies crashed to 104 for nine before Shiv Chanderpaul (36 not out) and Devendra Bishoo (24) posted an invaluable 48 for the last wicket.

"The contribution from the lower order was exceptional. One of the things we have changed in our nets is that 'everybody is a batsman'," Gibson explained.

"Everyone must be seen to be trying to improve in the batting department. That was a huge difference in the match."

He was quick to praise under-fire captain Darren Sammy, whose place in the side had come under scrutiny because of lack of performance.

The right-arm medium pacer snatched five for 29 in Pakistan's second innings to set up the Windies victory, finishing with match figures of seven for 45.

excellent figures

Pacer Ravi Rampaul also had excellent match figures of seven for 75, while leg-spinner Bishoo, on debut, grabbed four for 68 in the first innings.

"For Sammy, who was under so much pressure, to perform the way he did was a credit to himself and the way he goes about his work. He's an honest worker and a hard trier. You could not ask for more," Gibson pointed out.

"Also for Ravi, who has been in and out, to come back into the team was great to see. He is a pleasure to work with and has a thirst for knowledge.

"Bishoo came in and did a great job with the ball. He's a keen, hungry, young cricketer who just wants to get better and do great things for the West Indies. He's an asset to have around.

"When he didn't get any wickets for us in the second innings others stepped up and delivered. That is what team is all about," Gibson added.