Da Silva says, Test debut half century ‘unreal’ but...The journey has just begun

JOSHUA Da Silva described the achievement of scoring a half century on Test debut as unreal, but the Trinidadian is not resting on his laurels as he knows the work required to be consistent at international level.

After making three in the first innings Da Silva struck 57 in the second innings of the final Test match against New Zealand in Wellington, last weekend.

The right-hander’s knock did not help the West Indies as the regional team were comprehensively beaten by an innings and 12 runs.

Da Silva, 22, was one of few bright sparks as West Indies suffered a 2-0 defeat in the two-match series.

Da Silva travelled to New Zealand as a reserve, but was drafted into the squad as first choice wicket-keeper Shane Dowrich returned to the Caribbean because of personal reasons after the first Test.

“It was an unreal feeling, words can’t really describe the moment. I’m still trying to process it actually happened,” Da Silva told Newsday in a Whatsapp message, on Wednesday.

On Wednesday he was still travelling from New Zealand back to Trinidad after the series ended on Sunday.

After the experience in New Zealand, Da Silva knows his journey has just begun in his quest to be a West Indies player.

“It just showed me how much harder I have to work if I want to be consistent at that level. It’s not easy, it takes a lot of physical and mental strength.”

Despite his individual achievement, Da Silva was hopeful of a West Indies victory. “Of course it was a bitter-sweet feeling. Would have loved to win the game, but I wouldn’t say it took away from the moment.”

It was a disappointing batting performance by West Indies with five half centuries and one century being scored.

Da Silva, captain Jason Holder, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, opener John Campbell and middle order batsman Jermaine Blackwood scored fifties. Blackwood was the only batsman to score a century.

Fast bowler Chemar Holder also had a creditable showing on Test debut grabbing two wickets in one inning.

“I always knew Chemar was a quality bowler and very happy he got to showcase his skills at the highest level. He had a fantastic debut, picked up key wickets at important times and asked a lot of questions with the ball. (He) wasn’t too bad with the bat either, (I) should have stayed with him in both innings,” Da Silva said.

In both innings, Da Silva and Chemar batted together with the former being dismissed first.

Da Silva had to face a quality quartet of New Zealand fast bowlers which included Neil Wagner, Tim Southee, Trent Boult and player of the series Kyle Jamieson.

“It was quite the challenge. They don’t let up, always coming for your wicket. Very rarely do you get a bad ball. They ask a lot of questions and always have a plan.”