THE EDITOR, Madam:

Congratulations to the West Indies on winning the T20I series against South Africa. The West Indies beat South Africa in consecutive T20I series home and away. South Africa are no mugs. It was their World Cup team that played in that series. Now, if it were up to me, some of our players who are flying in from the IPL wouldn’t make the starting eleven in a hurry. They must earn their place in the team.

Whoever wants to ply their trade overseas, no problem, go right ahead. The WI wish you well too – you are welcome back any time, but one must join the pecking order like everybody else in the region.

The region is not short of talent, and there are players who want their opportunity to represent the West Indies and bring glory too. Perform and thou shall be rewarded.

A lot of fringe players like Fabian Allen, Kyle Mayers, Matthew Forde and Andre Fletcher have made a case for their inclusion in the World Cup squad. Whether people like it or not, franchise cricket has improved West Indies cricket, especially in the white ball format. Jayden Seales is doing well in England in the red ball format, too, so he’ll be ready to bowl the house down against England soon.

Hayley Mathews’ stint in the Women’s IPL has improved her performance in Asian conditions, and congratulations to the West Indies Women on their victories against Pakistan! The ability to face any bowler or bowl to any batter around the world has strengthened the mentality and focus of our players.

Congratulations and happy belated birthday to Sunil Narine on his third IPL title with Kolkata Knight Riders! Brandon King has proven to be an ideal replacement to Rovman Powell’s captaincy, so the team wasn’t by any measure depleted or second-string. Obed McCoy is a welcome return. Get well soon Jason Holder!

I agree with Curtly Ambrose, WI are favourites but we must not switch off until we get our hands on that trophy. Our horoscopes are lining up nicely, a lovely time to be a West Indies fan.

KENDELL KARAN

Chaguanas