NOTTINGHAM – Legendary West Indies captain Sir Vivian Richards has blasted the Caribbean side’s disastrous batting in the second Test at Trent Bridge and criticized newly recalled wicketkeeper/batsman Denesh Ramdin for having “deteriorated in such a big way”.
West Indies slumped to 61 for six in their second innings at the end of the third day Sunday and went on to lose the match by nine wickets yesterday.
“It was immature, and these individuals need to think about the requirements to play at this level,” Sir Viv told BBC’s Test Match Special.
“They must be given credit for the way they bowled, but the batters did not come to the party and need to sort their heads out where shot selection is concerned.”
Not for the first time in the series, West Indies’ top order collapsed after England had secured a 58-run first innings lead at tea.
Ramdin, recalled after two years in the wilderness, has failed to make a meaningful contribution in three of his four innings.
“Ramdin just looks out of sorts. When he first came into the game I felt he was a huge prospect,” said Sir Viv, who never lost a series as captain.
“For some reason, he has deteriorated in such a big way. Just the way he is walking back, he looks like a totally lost guy.”
Ramdin averages 22.28 after 44 Tests.
Sir Viv, who scored 8 540 from 121 Tests at an average of 50, said vice-captain Kirk Edwards’ technique was lacking.
“The flaws in Kirk Edwards’ technique . . . he’s looking all over the place. His confidence has been totally destroyed,” Sir Viv said. (CMC)
