WICB Media Release
KINGSTON, Jamaica (WICB) — Recently appointed bowling consultant, Sir Curtly Ambrose, says he hopes to bring something fresh to the West Indies team in a bid to help them return to their glorious past.
“I took on the role because I figure that my knowledge and my experience would mean a lot to these young cricketers of today,” said Ambrose, who was appointed to the position since last month.
“I am just hoping that whatever I bring to the table, it is something fresh, and something that will make these guys much better cricketers, and, in the process help to push West Indies cricket back to the top.”
A veteran of 98 Tests, and who during his career took 405 wickets at an impressive average of 20.99, Ambrose joined the team after serving as coach of the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC).
The CCC, a constant thorn in the sides of established territorial teams, made it to the final of the regional one-day tournament last year.
Talent
They have also noticeably produced young Barbadian pacer Jason Holder, who has been in and out of various West Indies teams over the past year.
“It is never a question of talent. We always had that. It’s just that they (West Indies bowlers) perhaps need a little motivation from someone, who has been there,” said the 50-year-old Ambrose.
Assistant coach to Roger Harper for Caribbean Premier League outfit, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Ambrose further outlined that his approach will not necessarily involve trying to change a bowler’s action.
“They are not bowling for the first time. These are bowlers who have, for the most part, been enjoying success from the youth level coming up,” he said.
“I am, therefore, not here to really try and change them, because they cannot be another Curtly Ambrose.
“What I am here to do is at least encourage them, give them bowling tips here and there, and point out where they may have come up short and how they can be better.”
Back-from-injury quickies Jerome Taylor and Kemar Roach, Holder, Shannon Gabriel and young Barbadian bowling sensation, Miguel Cummins have been the bowlers that Ambrose has been working in his new role.