Jamaica, April 27: West Indies believe they owe it to their long-suffering fans to win the World Twenty20 and end a six-year wait for meaningful international silverware.
Not since 2004, when they lifted the Champions Trophy, have the Caribbean side, once the undisputed rulers of the game, had a title to celebrate.
The years since have been marked by chronic under-achievement, punctuated by cash-fuelled boycotts and ugly political strife.
But veteran batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan, a veteran of the 2004 Champions Trophy set-up, believes home advantage could play a key role in the quickfire, 20-over format which starts on Friday.
“We have a very good chance of winning this competition. We are at home and that gives us an advantage,” said Sarwan, who is feeling his way back into form after a back injury cut short his tour of Australia earlier this year.
“What is important is that we play as a team and try and support each other as much as we can, whether it’s in the field or when we are batting or bowling. That is something we hope to do and we hope we can do it on a consistent basis.”
The 29-year-old, with 5,706 Test runs and 4,907 in 152 ODIs, insists the fans will have a key role.
“There will certainly not be a problem getting support from our fans. I think over the years, although we have not been at our best, the fans have been very supportive and I think they know that we need their support now.”
——-Agencies