Is this test the end of Darren Sammy's captaincy tenure.

Is this test the end of Darren Sammy's captaincy tenure.

By David Leggat

Wednesday Dec 18, 2013

If the West Indies don't square their test series against New Zealand this week, it might spell the end of Darren Sammy's captaincy tenure.

Even if they do, the West Indian cricket bosses might feel it's time to look elsewhere.
The amiable allrounder from St Lucia has been in charge of the test side since 2010, during which the West Indies have won eight of 29 tests, lost 11 and drawn 10.

Sammy's own form has been below par too. He has averaged a disappointing 22.84 with the bat and has taken only 54 wickets at 40 apiece while in charge.

Quizzed on his future in charge, Sammy was diplomatic.
"In life my mother has always told me that nothing lasts forever," he said.

"I've always said through my tenure as captain whenever the guys who put me there see fit to move me on, I'm all up for the interests of West Indies cricket."

A series-levelling win at Hamilton in the third test starting on Thursday would go a long way to Sammy retaining the leadership. But he appears to be a compromise choice, with no other outstanding candidate. Certainly he ticks boxes on the scores of passion and determination.

''I feel good, I'm enjoying my game. But whatever decision is taken it's all good with me. I'll continue trying my best for the people of the Caribbean." The West Indies have no test cricket after the Hamilton test until May-June when New Zealand are visiting the Caribbean for a full tour. Sammy hinted he'd like to still be calling the shots then.

''It's a long time till the next series, in our conditions. I'll be looking forward to seeing how they handle it. Last time (last year when the West Indies won the tests 2-0) they didn't handle it too well," Sammy said.

Appears a bit amateurish to place a future on one single performance rather than an accumulation of events.

Sammy is so terribly likeable and this must also radiate to the dressing room which is a major part of captaincy.

Was Sammy really necessary?

Possibly.

However the total upheaval caused by the administrators needed a pacifier and Sammy may have been the right man. However I am of the view you select your best team.

Is Sammy that for Tests? Not in my view and reading this forum and elsewhere this seems to be a universal view.

I think Sammy is good for the West Indies but, if one had to be totally honest, he is not really a remote candidate in the realms of Test Cricket.

If my opinion was sought, I would fully recommend him to T20 and as a Captain/ player where I think he would do well.

I do not see his role in any other format but at a stretch, maybe, ODIs.

I do really like this guy though and it would be sad to see him go but it might be the best for your Cricket.

In fact it is somewhat stereotypical to associate a likeable West Indian with one constantly smiling.

I agree Chin, that is why I said an accumulation of events.

Many thanks for your very nice, informed post from which I have learnt.

hope this is his last test match