Nevis concluded yet another dismal performance during this recently concluded 2007 Leeward Islands Cricket Tournament. The former champions who dominated the tournament in the nineties struggled to stay afloat this year and ended behind newly crowned champions Anguilla, Antigua and St. Kitts.
Demolished by Antigua within two days, folding up to Anguilla early on the last day and losing first inning points to St. Kitts have left many unanswered questions.
Let me first highlight some of the positives I’ve witnessed.
Joel Simmonds leading the team seemed to be a good choice. His captaincy from what I surmised could hardly be faulted. Called back into a team that was void of experience, Simmonds responded well and should be highly congratulated for his services.
Kejel Tyson seems to have the right attitude towards batting. His concentration, the main criterion for any successful batsman, is certainly present. That along with his focus needs to be encouraged and his opening position should not be compromised.
Javier Liburd is a naturally talented batsman whose place in the West Indies team is solely left up to him. Fitness and discipline are some noticeable concerns.
Adelvin Phillip as an opening bowler maintains a decent line and consistency. He is a player who could improve with good guidance and proper attitude.
Junior Williams seems a good prospect as an all-rounder.
Jurnel Turner as a left arm spinner showed signs that he can develop into a more capable bowler.
Akito Willett’s double hundred against Montserrat must also be mentioned.
The return of Runako Morton as captain for the final matches along with these other players were the main points worthy of mention with regard to the Nevis positives this year. Top scoring in the two completed matches in which he participated, Ronnie was subsequently named captain of the Leeward Islands team as was widely expected.
The concerns of overall team performances have been deep. Abundance of talent floats around Nevis as it has always has in the past, and yet the jelling together as a team and the results that are expected have been rather disappointing.
Structure has been in place for cricket more than any other sport here on the island. Achieving the highest number of test cricketers per capita is no mean feat. Identifying players at pre- and primary school levels have been a part of the process. Highlighting such players and leading them through the ranks has been a constant feature. Some of our outstanding and successful cricketers have been attached to the schools to foster and shape such talent. They have been doing a good job.
However, just before these players take the final steps of the ladder, something happens that we seem not to be able to identify and correct.
Stuart Williams have been given the responsibility of being our national coach and no one can question his loyalty to the task. He has been ever present, passionate and consistent while performing his duties, and often goes beyond that point in order to get the maximum from, and for the players.
But, is that really enough? Do the players now need a sports psychologist? A motivator?
Or are the problems home related and deeply rooted in the modern methods of molding our children. What could that be?
In closing, let me wish Dennerson Browne a speedy and complete recovery. He is one of our players who can represent us at the higher level. A decent all-rounder, Dennerson has performed well and although he was unable to participate in the recently concluded tournament, one hopes he’ll be ready for the Stanford 20/20 tournament, and deliver the goods at that level.
