Chase: Lack of experience letting us down at crucial stages

KINGSTON, Jamaica – West Indies Test captain Roston Chase believes a lack of experience is the main reason the regional side finds itself down 2-0 in their three-match Test series against Australia.

The West Indies were competitive for the first two days in both Test matches in Barbados and Grenada, but eventually capitulated to lose both games inside three days.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, on the eve of the third and final day/night Test at Sabina Park, Chase admitted that the West Indies’ batsmen in particular, were not adequately prepared to deal with Australia’s world class bowling quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc, who are all ranked among the 10 best Test bowlers in the world.

Chase said the Windies’ lack of experience was evident as the game progressed.

“I think it’s a bit of fitness and I think it’s a bit of the know-how. I think the guys are lacking a bit in the experience of that second innings.

“We had a chat about the after-lunch session. I think we’re playing good cricket before lunch, but every time after lunch, whether it be batting or bowling, we tend to slacken off and we can’t seem to really put a finger on it as yet, but I would just say that I think it’s the know-how in terms of batting against good bowlers for a consistent period of time,” Chase said.

“We play first-class cricket to come here, but I don’t think our first-class cricket is a good judge to bring you to international level, because in most first-class teams there are probably one or two good bowlers, but in this lineup they are four guys in the top 10 that are going to be there consistently so I think that is a factor.

“I also think that probably scoreboard pressure as well. I mean, seeing the lead in front of you I think it plays a bit on the mental,” he further added.

Despite having already conceded the series, Chase said it was still important for the West Indies to try to win the final Test.

With the series marking the start of a new Test Championship cycle, he said valuable points were up for grabs.

“Every game is important because there are points for the games, so it’s not only about winning the series, but we have to win matches to get that percentage up so you can be in contention to go further up the table,” Chase said.

(CMC)