Gomes in favour of WI-born coach

LARRY GOMES, the former TT and West Indies middle-order batsman, is in favour of a WI-born person to take over as the full-time coach of the regional team.

Ex-Australian batsman Stuart Law, who signalled his intention to step down as WI coach at the end of the Bangladesh series, to take up a role with English country team Middlesex, was replaced by his fielding coach, former South Africa wicketkeeper Nic Pothas, after last month’s tour of India. But Gomes is hopeful that the Cricket West Indies (CWI) can appoint a regional person on a full-time basis.

“It’s sad to see the coaching leaving and going to Middlesex, my old county,” said Gomes. “Once we can get the best coach.

“Ideally, I think it would be good to have West Indian coaching the team. He’ll know the players, he’ll know their thinking.”

Gomes’ former WI teammate Desmond Haynes has signalled his intention to take over the mantle as team coach.

Gomes, speaking during a recent interview, also reflected on his international career, which ran from 1976-1987.

“I’m fortunate to be part of one of the greatest teams in cricket history,” he noted. “It’s always great to be a part of a winning team. Once you’re winning, it’s contagious, just like losing. Our team was a well-balanced team. I’m fortunate to play my small part in that era.”