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Beware of the new Windies
13/12/2007 21:29 - (SA)
Christo Buchner , Beeld
East London - The West Indian cricketers are a new team under the captaincy of Chris Gayle, says former skipper Shivnarine Chanderpaul.
Chanderpaul says the difference in approach was clear when Gayle took over the reins during the tour of England earlier this year.
"His relaxed way of doing things has a good influence on the players. He is also not one who does things behind anyone's back.
"He made it clear that there should be camaraderie in the team and that everyone would be treated at the same level.
"Under his captaincy, all the cards are laid on the table. If anyone has a problem, he is free to discuss it. Things are not done behind doors and are not bottled up," Chanderpaul said.
"You know you can take the liberty to talk to him. He will listen and try to find a solution.
"This is something the players appreciate because they don't have to mope about things that itch.
"There is certainly a more relaxed atmosphere in the team, which also works in favour of the cricket we play," Chanderpaul said here on Thursday ahead of the team's match against the Makhaya Ntini XI on Friday.
Conditions are different
With Brian Lara out of the team, Gayle realises he carries a large responsibility, particularly to steady the top-order batting.
"When one looks at previous tours, you know this one won't be easy. Conditions here are different to those we know. The extra pace and bounce make things difficult for our batsmen.
"We realise we will have to be dedicated and will have to build our innings. It will take hard work but we won't shy away from it.
"Here, you don't just walk to the wicket and start hitting the ball to all corners of the ground. You have to play yourself in, and that takes dedication.
"We are well focussed on the task ahead and we aim to control the things that we are able to control. I believe that, with the new spirit in our cricket, we are ready for the job."
Chanderpaul said he had set himself some targets on this tour but he would keep them to himself.
- Beeld
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