West Indies head coach Andre Coley has urged his team to move past their disappointing home Test series against South Africa and focus on finishing the year strong as they prepare for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The series, part of the World Test Championship, begins in Antigua on November 22.
Although the series holds limited significance in the WTC standings, with West Indies and Bangladesh sitting at eighth and ninth positions respectively, the hosts are eager to claim a victory. Their sole Test success this year was a drawn series against Australia, and Coley stressed the importance of ending the year positively.
Reflecting on their recent performances, Coley acknowledged the team’s struggles. After the draw against Australia, West Indies suffered three consecutive defeats to England but showed improvement against South Africa. Despite losing the second Test by just 40 runs, Coley described the series as disappointing.
"Very important (to end the year on a winning note) because coming out of it disappointment all around South Africa series," Coley said ahead of the series opener against Bangladesh. "Previously, the first three or four days were hampered by rain and we have since been able to have a couple of good sessions on the ground here in Antigua and everybody is in good spirits and everybody is fit and available," he said.
"It's very important for us to come out with a winning result on home soil before we head off to (Pakistan)... this is the final four Test matches in this edition of the World Test Championship it is very important for us to do well here win the series and get a momentum heading into Pakistan."
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, rested during the South Africa series to manage his workload, returns to bolster the side. However, the team will be without all-rounder Jason Holder, who continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Coley highlighted this series as an opportunity for both seasoned players and newcomers to step up. He noted that some players have prior experience playing successfully against Bangladesh, while others are looking to make their mark.
The second Test is set to take place in Jamaica on November 30, providing the West Indies with a chance to conclude the year in strong form. For Coley, this series is not just about winning but about building confidence and cohesion as the team looks ahead to future challenges.