Sammy Sees Positive Signs as West Indies Aim to Climb WTC Standings Against Pakistan

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy believes his Test side is beginning to make steady progress despite a difficult World Test Championship (WTC) campaign, expressing confidence ahead of the two-match Test series against Pakistan that begins on Saturday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Currently placed eighth in the nine-team WTC standings with just one win from 10 matches, West Indies are only a few points away from breaking into the top six. Sammy said the team has started to show encouraging signs after securing a 1-0 series victory over Sri Lanka earlier this month.

Reflecting on the team's journey since taking over as head coach, Sammy pointed to the challenging schedule his side faced against Australia, India, and New Zealand before finally gaining momentum.

"Everything is a process," Sammy said. "We had three very difficult Test series to begin with, but now we are seeing some light coming through, especially after the Sri Lanka series. The players understand our goals and the roles they have to play in achieving them."

Sammy reiterated that his long-term vision remains building a competitive team capable of challenging for the 2027–29 World Test Championship title. He emphasized that the current focus is on developing a consistent squad rather than reacting to outside criticism.

The West Indies camp, however, faces an injury concern ahead of the Pakistan series, with wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo nursing a shoulder injury sustained during the ODI series against New Zealand. Although Jangoo has resumed batting in the nets and remains available for selection, his fitness will be monitored closely.

Should Jangoo be unavailable, experienced batter Shai Hope could once again be asked to keep wicket, a role he performed during the second Test against Sri Lanka. Joshua Da Silva is also part of the squad, giving the selectors multiple options behind the stumps.

"We're discussing the best way forward," Sammy said. "Shai has been willing to help the team, but we also have to manage his workload across all three formats."

West Indies have also strengthened their squad with the inclusion of left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop, who has earned his maiden Test call-up after consistent domestic performances. Top-order batter Kirk McKenzie has returned to the squad following an impressive comeback in domestic cricket after losing form last year.

Sammy said the spin-friendly conditions expected in Trinidad could allow the hosts to field two specialist spinners alongside captain Roston Chase. He also highlighted the importance of building a larger pool of players capable of stepping into the side without disrupting the team's balance.

Looking ahead, Sammy stressed that the objective is to create depth in the squad so that injuries or absences do not significantly impact team performance.

The upcoming series against Pakistan will also carry emotional significance for the Caribbean side following the recent passing of West Indies legend Sir Garry Sobers. Sammy said the team would dedicate its performances to honouring one of the greatest cricketers in history.

"We've lost a great of the game," Sammy said. "Sir Garry contributed so much to cricket and inspired generations of players and fans. Throughout this series, we'll be playing to honour his legacy with performances that would make him proud."