Kolkata, Nov 16: Chasing a mammoth 631 runs, West Indies were struggling on 34 for the loss of two wickets at stumps on Day 2 of the second Test against India. Speaking at the press conference after the end of day’s play, West Indies team manager Richie Richardson said that the visitors would have take a page out of India’s book to be able to save the match at Eden Gardens.
Excerpts from the press conference:
On the batting strategy
We would like to bat the way India batted. It's a very good batting wicket. India played exceptionally well. We would like to bat the same way. But it's not going to be easy as the Indian bowlers will put pressure. But we’ve got to make sure that we bat two days.
On the difficulty of chasing a big total
When you see such a big total, you think it's difficult. But you have to assess the situation and tell yourself, 'Look, we can do it too'. It's a good wicket. If two guys get stuck in and get centuries we can avoid defeat. We have to bat ourselves to a good position.
On the nature of the wicket at Eden Gardens
The Indians made full use of the very good batting wicket. It's a flat wicket and the Indians have capitalised. It will be tough for the bowlers. We hope our batsmen can go there and show positive intent without playing rash shots.
On Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman’s innings
Both of them have tremendous determination. They are an example for young aspiring batsmen. They are different players. I don't like to make comparisons. I like both of them. Dravid is solid as a rock. He doesn't take chances; he prefers to stay as long as he can. Laxman, on the other hand, is pretty easy-going, wristy player and plays his shots.
On the current side being called the weakest West Indies side to have toured India
You’ve got to accept that you cannot be the best all the time. You’ve got to look at areas where you need to develop and believe in yourself. When you are down you’ve got to find ways and means to get up there. We have talented players. We have an exceptional leader in [Darren] Sammy and the boys are showing improvement. There can't be a miracle turnaround. With time we will get back there.
On the lack of experience in the side
We have a good team at the moment. The young players are learning fast. We’ve got Shivnarine Chanderpaul who is a great person, batsman and player. We are pretty happy with the commitment shown by the players. We don't have any discipline issues. They are committed to training hard and working hard. It's just a matter of time.
