I’ve been reading a lot of articles and reports congratulating the West Indies on their draw in the second test, with Chris Gayle in particular coming in for praise. I can’t help but wonder if it’s not a little premature.
There is no doubt they have improved from the first test at the Gabba, but let;s face it, it would be hard not to.
The reality is that the West Indies were unable to push their advantage against an Australian team that is looking increasingly middle of the road.
This is a team that pales in comparison to those of the past decade. There is no Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath picking up wickets at will. There is no Brett Lee blowing away batsmen with 150 km/h thunderbolts. And there is no Hayden, Langer, Martyn or Gilchrist to set or chase any size of total.
This is a team with a workmen like bowling line up, and with the exception of Ponting and Clarke, a batting lineup that is either inexperienced or out of form.
Yet, still the men from the Caribbean are being applauded for a draw that ensured the Aussies will retain the Frank Worrell Trophy, which they have held since 1995.
As for Gayle, his composed innings of 165 runs off 285 only reinforced the frustration of his previous three innings in the series. In all these cases, Gayle got out after playing irresponsible or lazy shots.
This innings only served to show the incredible talent and ability he possesses when, all too infrequently committing himself.
When focused, Gayle has shown he has the capability to dismantle any bowling line up with a combination of strength and trademark West Indian flair.
As for the rest of his team, Dwayne Bravo continues to show he is a world class player and others showed they can perform at Test level.
But the real proof will be in reproducing and improving on this standard of play in the third Test.
If the Windies, and Gayle, can continue this form and level the series in the third Test, then I will pat them on the back say well done.
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