Daren Sammy Sees Progress for West Indies Before Pakistan Test Series

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy believes his side are starting to see results from a long-term plan as they get ready for the Test series against Pakistan. The team have won only once in 10 Tests and sit eighth in the World Test Championship table, with Pakistan at the bottom. The first Test begins on July 25 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, the venue’s first men’s Test, and the second starts at Queen’s Park Oval on August 2.

A process starting to pay off

Sammy, who became coach in April 2025, noted that his first three Test series were against Australia, India and New Zealand, about as demanding as it gets. He said the group set a clear direction early and stuck to it despite criticism from outside, and that a 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka shows things are moving the right way. West Indies are only a few points from the top six, so the Pakistan series is a real chance to move up.

Wicketkeeping question over Jangoo

Sammy revealed that wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo has a shoulder injury from the ODI series against New Zealand. With his availability unclear, Shai Hope may be asked to keep wicket again, although the coach said the team must manage his workload because he features in all three formats.

Bishop rewarded

The coach praised left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop, who has earned a first Test call-up through consistent domestic form. Sammy said Bishop had been close for a long time and that, with conditions expected to help spin, a second genuine spinner adds flexibility. Kirk McKenzie also returns, for the first time since 2024.

A tribute to Sir Garry Sobers

Sammy said the team will dedicate the series to Sir Garry Sobers, whose death was recent. He described the great all-rounder as an inspiration to generations and said the players want to honour him with performances he would have been proud of.