Rutherford credits self-belief, family for batting success

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC):

West Indies star batsman Sherfane Rutherford believes his hard work and the love for his family are the main reasons behind his recent batting exploits, which have garnered widespread acclaim.

In 2024, Rutherford scored 425 runs in seven One Day International (ODI) innings at an amazing average of 106.25, leading to him being nominated for the ICC’s ODI Cricketer of the Year Award and being named in the ESPNcricinfo’s ODI Team of the Year.

Spanning ODI series against Sri Lanka, England and Bangladesh, the 26-year-old scored five consecutive 50-plus scores, becoming the fourth West Indian after Gordon Greenidge, Chris Gayle and Shai Hope, who have six in a row each, to achieve this feat.

In a recent interview with Cricket West Indies, Rutherford said a shift in mindset helped improve his game.

“The turning point for me was asking myself a tough question: ‘Will you play cricket for your whole life and be basic or be the same person’?

“I think that question changed everything for me,” Rutherford said.

“I just decided that I am going to do what others weren’t doing. I was going to work harder, improve and find ways to better my game.”

Rutherford also credited his family, and the love for his parents, saying it was a major driving force behind his success.

“Playing for the West Indies means a lot to me because it’s something my parents always wanted for me.

“Every time I put on the maroon, it gives me that extra boost and joy and pride, knowing I’m representing the region,” Rutherford admitted.

“Losing my parents was very tough, but when I lost my dad in 2022, that’s when I became a father myself.

“Having a family of my own gives me strength to keep going, to keep working though setbacks, no matter the pain.

“Now, it’s just about doing it for my parents. My daddy loved cricket, and my mom is a big fan as well. Everything I achieve reflects their hard work and the sacrifices they made for me,” he added.