Shane Deitz, the recently appointed Head Coach of the West Indies cricket team, is determined to cultivate and enhance the unique ‘Calypso brand’ of cricket in the region. Having assumed his role in late August, Deitz underscores the necessity for the women’s team to elevate their skills.
Deitz, a former South Australia wicketkeeper-batter who previously coached the Bangladesh women’s team, steps into the shoes of leadership for the West Indies team. Despite a commendable semifinal appearance in the ODI World Cup in 2022, the team underperformed in the T20 version earlier this year, prompting the change in coaching.
Assisting Deitz in his mission will be Ryan Austin and Steve Liburd, who bring their own wealth of experience to the team.
The head coach asserts that the vibrant and expressive style of ‘Calypso cricket’ has been instrumental in the success of teams worldwide. He firmly believes that this style can yield favorable outcomes for the West Indies team.
Deitz emphasizes the indispensable role of hard work in achieving excellence, affirming that it is non-negotiable for players aspiring to reach the zenith of their potential.
Meanwhile, the Women’s Selection Panel has unveiled a 15-member squad for the upcoming tour to Australia in October. Noteworthy is the representation of four talented Guyanese women in the squad: Cherry Ann Fraser, Shabika Gajnabi, Vice-captain Shemaine Campbelle, and Ashmini Munisar. The squad will be led by skipper Hayley Matthews and includes other key players like Aaliyah Alleyne, Shamilia Connell, Afy Fletcher, Chinelle Henry, and Stafanie Taylor, among others.
Travis Seymour reporting for NCN News