ICC Under19 Cricket World Cup Teams & Groups

West Indies Team Profile

West Indies has had its fair share of memories in the tournament. In 2004, they beat all odds and reached the final, only to lose to Pakistan by 25 runs, although in 2006 they were routed out by India after reaching the quarter-final. Chris Gayle was also the top run-scorer at the 1998 event, although many of his 364 runs did come in the Plate competition, where they were eventually beaten by Bangladesh in the Final.

The present Caribbean side wants to claim a first by bringing the trophy home in this event. The team will benefit from all the experience of coach Larry Gomes, while much responsibility will lie on the shoulders of captain and first-class cricketer, Shamarh Brooks, who participated in the 2006 edition of this tournament, and is a very good all-round cricketer.

Adrian Barath is considered to be the best batsman in the team, having scored 485 runs at 53.88 in his six first-class appearances, and is also valued for his fielding skills. Devon Thomas is also highly-rated and Darren Bravo, the younger brother of Dwayne, will be hoping to follow in his sibling's footsteps.

Fast bowler Jason Dawes has the potential to be a match-winner and the team is also looking forward to some quality left arm spin bowling from Veerasammy Permaul, who has already captured 18 wickets at first-class level.

The side has prepared itself by taking part in a variety of events during the past twelve months. Twenty players were short-listed in preparation for the World Cup and this squad participated in the Senior West Indies Regional Tournament in October.

Although many lessons will have been learnt, this was not a successful experience as they lost all three matches and attracted worldwide headlines for recording the lowest total in domestic one-day cricket, just 18 all out against Barbados with Pedro Collins taking 7-11.

The side finalized preparations for the event with a training camp in Barbados and a short tour of Bangladesh, before landing in Malaysia.

Team manager Clyde Butts is looking forward to the event and considers it a good experience for future international cricketers. "The players will not only experience different playing conditions but they will also be exposed to new cultures and different batting and bowling styles of their opponents. This exposure will enrich them to be better cricketers at a more senior level," he adds.

About his team's prospects in the tournament, he says positively: "My expectations are that the players will perform at a very high standard and as a result return with the trophy to the West Indies."