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West Indies is gearing up to host Team India for an exciting multi-format series, featuring two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is. The series is scheduled to commence on July 12 in Dominica and promises to be an enthralling contest between the two cricketing powerhouses. Adding to the excitement, West Indies legend Brian Lara has joined the Men in Maroon side as part of their support staff, taking up the role of performance mentor for the upcoming series.
Brian Lara, who recently served as the head coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2023, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the West Indies team. His appointment as the performance mentor reflects the team's commitment to enhancing their overall performance and achieving success against a formidable Indian side. Lara's presence and guidance are expected to provide a significant boost to the players' morale and development, especially in crucial aspects of their game.
The West Indies Cricket Board confirmed Lara's involvement through their official Twitter handle, stating, "West Indies legend Brian Lara has joined the players at their camp at CCG ahead of the series vs India. Lara is Performance Mentor." This announcement created a buzz among cricket enthusiasts and fans worldwide, as Lara's exceptional batting skills and remarkable cricketing career have left an indelible mark on the sport.
West Indies legend Brian Lara has joined the players at their camp at CCG ahead of the series vs India. Lara is Performance Mentor.
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 3, 2023
The 1st Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test will be played at Windsor Park in Dominica. #WIHome #WIvIND
Get Tickets⬇️https://t.co/21A070Xq1G pic.twitter.com/NEaCL9exkS
This series holds immense importance for the West Indies team, particularly due to their disappointing performance in the World Cup qualifiers. For the first time in 48 years, the two-time champions will not be participating in the ODI World Cup. Hence, the upcoming matches against India present a vital opportunity for the West Indies to regain their form and reestablish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in international cricket.
West Indies' recent Test series against South Africa ended in disappointment, with the team suffering losses in both games. Furthermore, their performance in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle 2021-23 saw them finish in the 8th position on the points table. The team also ended the inaugural WTC cycle 2019-21 in the 6th position. With the commencement of a new WTC cycle, West Indies aims to kickstart on a positive note, capitalizing on India's vulnerability after their defeat in the WTC final.
As part of their preparations, the West Indies squad commenced a preparatory camp, led by their captain Kraigg Brathwaite. This camp served as an opportunity for the players to fine-tune their skills and form a cohesive unit before the series. The team is set to travel to Dominica on July 9, where the first Test will take place. The second and final Test is scheduled to be held in Trinidad, ensuring an exciting and diverse cricketing experience for both the players and fans.
On the other hand, Team India approaches this series as an opportunity to begin the new WTC cycle on a positive note. After facing defeat in the final of the previous two editions, the Indian team aims to bounce back and establish their dominance in Test cricket once again. In line with this objective, India has made a few changes to their squad, signaling the beginning of a transition period. Several promising young players have been included in both the batting and bowling departments, providing them with a chance to showcase their talent and contribute to the team's success.
With the stage set and the anticipation building, the upcoming series between West Indies and India promises to deliver thrilling moments, high-intensity cricket, and captivating performances. As fans eagerly await the first ball to be bowled on July 12, the presence of Brian Lara as the performance mentor for the West Indies team adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement. It remains to be seen how the West Indies team, under the guidance of Lara and the leadership of Kraigg Brathwaite, will fare against an Indian side eager to make their mark in the new WTC cycle.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Brian Lara in the West Indies team's support staff as a performance mentor ahead of the series against India is a significant development. With both teams striving for success and redemption, the series holds immense importance for West Indies as they look to overcome their recent setbacks and make a strong statement. The guidance and expertise of Lara, coupled with the preparations undertaken by both teams, sets the stage for a riveting contest that cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await.
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