Ryan Hinds has a new role this year.
The Barbados captain doesn’t only want to make a major contribution with the bat, ball and in the field during the 2011 West Indies Cricket Board regional four-day competition which starts on Friday.
He also wants to play a hand in the development of the younger players.
“My focus is to lead this team well. I always set out to be an effective leader. You always set personal goals, be it most runs, most wickets but my role now is to guide the youngsters,” Hinds said on the eve of Barbados’ first match against Trinidad and Tobago.
The selection panel, under the chairmanship of former national leg-spinner George Linton, has adopted a policy of pushing young talent with a view to exposing the players to the West Indies selectors.
As a result, Barbados’ 13-man squad includes four teenagers and two other players under the age of 23.
Speaking to NATIONNews.com while the players were having a practice session at the National Cricket Centre in Couva, Trinidad, Hinds said he was satisfied with the preparations despite having to contend with mainly indoor drills because of afternoon rain on Thursday.
“The preparations have been fantastic. The guys are gelling very well. The young players are very comfortable. They are pretty eager to showcase their talent,” Hinds said.
“I expect a lot of energy. We still have a quality bowling attack. We are depending on Pedro Collins, Tino Best, Dale Richards any myself to lead this young team.
“It is very important that we play good team cricket. We have some tough games. It is very important that we come out here and get maximum points.”
Please see Friday’s WEEKEND NATION for further coverage.
