West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach claimed his 250th Test wicket in the recently concluded series against Bangladesh at Gros Islet’s Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia. Head coach Phil Simmons heaps praise on the veteran, saying he has been helping young fast bowlers mature quickly.
In his recent interview, head coach Simmons lauded the fast bowler for his achievement and said he’s having a massive influence on young fast bowlers in the team. Simmons was particularly happy with Roach guiding the youngsters and helping them mature quickly in the inexperienced stage of their careers.
“He is helping the fast bowlers to mature quicker. I think he has an exceptional influence on all the young fast bowlers. He has taken his role as the senior pro very seriously.
It shows on the field. You can see him talking to them, who are trying to do the right things all the time. I think his influence has been massive to these young fast bowlers”,
said Simmons.
Roach has been a part of the WI Test side since 2009 and has dealt with ups and downs. The 34-year-old had a series to remember against Bangladesh, becoming only the sixth West Indies bowler to take 250 Test wickets.
He surpassed West Indies giants Courtney Walsh and Curtly Ambrose in the process. The pacer averages 26.83 apiece – higher than the other five members in the club but has a better strike rate (52.7) than the two he surpassed.
West Indies claimed the series by 2-0 against Bangladesh, winning both the matches by heavy margins. Simmons was delighted with the performance from his bowlers on slower pitches as they bowled out Bangladesh under 250 in all four innings. Roach ended up being the second-highest wicket-taker behind Alzarri Joseph, with 10 wickets in two matches at 18.50 apiece.
