Adams looking for early Windies sharpness

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (CMC):

AS PREPARATIONS ramp up for the much-anticipated Test series, the West Indies team’s three-day warm-up match against the Pakistan Shaheens will be taken seriously, according to assistant coach Jimmy Adams.

The encounter, which has been shifted from Rawalpindi to Islamabad, is set to begin tomorrow at 11:30 p.m.

Speaking ahead of the game, batting coach Adams expressed satisfaction with the team’s readiness and praised the local facilities.

“The conditions are excellent for cricket. The weather here is good, as it is neither too cold nor too hot. The facilities they’ve provided have been excellent, with quality surfaces and enough practice bowlers. The players have had everything they need and have been putting in the time with great intensity.”

While this match is technically just a warm-up, Adams underscored its significance.

“I wouldn’t use the word ‘just’. This game will provide invaluable middle time, which is critical as we head into the first Test,” he said.

The former West Indies captain further highlighted the importance of the match in fine-tuning preparations, as conditions can be different from what the players are accustomed to.

“This is an important part of the build-up. It’s about getting quality time in the middle against a strong opposition. Hopefully we can make full use of the opportunity.”

The team’s training sessions have reportedly been high-intensity and focused, with players working on both individual and collective aspects of their game. Adams emphasised the importance of mastering the basics, which will be put to the test when the official series begins.

“Our goal is to execute the fundamentals for longer than any team we face. After a long flight and a few days of rest, the focus has been on ensuring we’re ready to deliver those basics tomorrow.”