West Indies head coach Daren Sammy penned a heartfelt note of appreciation as his side wrapped up their tour of India, lauding the BCCI for their warm hospitality and personally thanking India head coach Gautam Gambhir for taking the time to inspire his team after the series ended.
India completed a clean sweep in the two-match Test series, sealing the second Test with a seven-wicket victory in the opening session of Day 5 at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. The first match had been a dominant outing for the hosts, finishing in just two-and-a-half days on a lively Ahmedabad pitch, with India winning by an innings and 140 runs. But in Delhi, on a slower surface, the West Indies showed improved resolve – a fight that didn’t go unnoticed.
After the series, at the invitation of Sammy, Indian players and Gambhir visited the West Indies dressing room. It was there that Gambhir delivered a candid and heartfelt address, praising the Caribbean squad for their humility and gracious attitude, and adding that such qualities are something even his own team could learn from.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sammy shared his gratitude in a moving message:
“As we leave India, I’d like to thank BCCI for having us here and being a great host. Plenty of lessons and learnings from this trip for my staff and players that we can apply both on and off the field. Special thanks to @GautamGambhir for taking time after the Test match to address my team with some heartfelt words. CWI will continue to find ways for us to improve and be better as a Test-playing nation in spite of all our different challenges. Till next year, next stop: Bangladesh.”
Sammy’s comments reflect both realism and hope. During the series, he spoke openly about the long-standing financial and structural challenges facing West Indies cricket – issues that continue to hinder player development and team operations. Captain Roston Chase echoed these concerns after the first Test, shedding light on the day-to-day struggles many players face due to inadequate facilities and limited resources.
Despite the hurdles, the team found motivation from within and beyond the dressing room. West Indies cricket legends Brian Lara, Sir Vivian Richards, and Richie Richardson were present in Delhi, offering encouragement and advice to the young squad as they continue their quest to restore past glories.
As the West Indies camp departs India, they do so not just with the scars of defeat, but with a stronger sense of purpose. Sammy remains resolute in his vision: to rebuild, to inspire, and to return stronger. Their next challenge begins shortly, with a limited-overs tour of Bangladesh featuring three ODIs and three T20Is starting Saturday in Dhaka.
For now, this Indian tour – though tough on the field – may prove to be a turning point off it.
Also Read: ‘Siu Siraj!’ – Mohammed Siraj channels Ronaldo energy after Impactful Test return at home
