Sarwan takes Windies armband

/ Editor / 01 May 2007 / Leave a Comment

Ramnaresh Sarwan has been charged with the task of leading a West Indies renaissance after being confirmed as their new captain following the retirement of Brian Lara.

Sarwan, who top scored in his homeland during the World Cup with 375 runs at an average of 46.87, has played 65 Tests and 124 one-day matches and will get his captain's reign underway in the tour to England which begins next month.

"He's very no nonsense, very abrasive and very aggressive," former Windies fast bowler Colin Croft told the BBC.

"But the players react very well to him - differently to the way they reacted to (former skipper) Brian Lara. That has been evident in the times that Sarwan has led them on the field.

"I think he definitely has the support of the younger players and their body language has always been positive with him leading them.

"He gets things done and does not mince too many words. I don't expect him to enjoy immediate success, but I hope he can at least get the best out of the current squad."

West Indies are also expected to announce that David Moore, former assistant to Bennett King who resigned last week, will take over as the new coach.

The pair will be hoping to plot a bright future for the former greats after a poor World Cup campaign, with the emphasis likely to be put on the West Indies' promising youngsters.

Punters do not share the opinion the new regime will reap instant rewards as the West Indies are the 8.4 outsiders to claim victory in the First Test against favourites England (1.66) in a developing Match Odds market, with the draw available at 3.05.