West Indies ODI Series Loss to Bangladesh: Daren Sammy Reflects on Spin Struggles
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Dhaka, October 24, 2025: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy expressed his disappointment after his team’s 2-1 ODI series defeat to Bangladesh, acknowledging that the visitors struggled across all departments despite some standout individual performances.
The series highlighted a stark contrast between the two teams’ spin attacks. Bangladesh’s spinners dominated the series, claiming 27 wickets at an average of 14.66 and maintaining an economy rate of 3.80. In comparison, the West Indies spinners managed only 18 wickets at an average of 30.05 with an economy rate of 4.39.
Sammy noted that key West Indies players, including left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie and all-rounder Roston Chase, were unable to make an impact, while part-timer Alick Athanaze delivered better figures than both in the second ODI.
“The positive in the ODI series was probably the batting of Shai Hope—how he continues to put the team on his back every time he faces a challenge,” Sammy said. “He is a leader. He puts the team on his back, but I am really disappointed in the way we bowled. You come to Bangladesh and you know spinners should be licking their lips. That’s the area where you will get to execute your plans and in the most favorable conditions. What we displayed over the last three games was very poor, not consistent enough.”
Leadership and Fielding Concerns
Sammy praised Shai Hope for his consistency and leadership but was critical of the team’s overall execution, particularly in bowling and fielding.
“We were poor in all three disciplines. I think we dropped six catches. Two didn’t go to hand and one was too wide. We were poor in all the departments today,” he added, reflecting on how missed opportunities contributed to their defeat.
Despite the spin-friendly conditions in Dhaka, Sammy refused to make excuses, stating that home advantage is part of international cricket, and Bangladesh rightfully capitalized on familiar conditions.
“I can’t tell the Bangladesh team or the authorities what wicket to prepare. I focus on my team having the skillset to counteract whatever comes when playing away,” he said.
Bright Spots for the West Indies
Amid the disappointment, there were positives for the West Indies. Sammy highlighted Akeal Hosein’s return after a two-year absence from the ODI side. The left-arm spinner took six wickets in two matches at an average of 13.66 with an economy rate of 4.10, providing hope for the team’s spin department.
“Massive kudos to Akeal in the manner in which he came up. In a team where you have three left-arm spinners and a guy who’s been out for the last two years coming in and outshine them, yes, there’s a place for competition. That’s what you want in a team,” Sammy said.
The coach emphasized the importance of competition within the squad, noting that performances like Hosein’s challenge established players and strengthen the team overall.
Looking Ahead
While the series defeat is a setback for the West Indies, Sammy remains focused on team development and building resilience, particularly for overseas tours where conditions differ significantly from home.
“This series was very important for both teams. You are supposed to do what you have to do to win at home. Whether that affects your development going outside of Bangladesh, that’s on them. I just thought my players didn’t play well throughout the series,” he concluded.
The West Indies will now regroup and analyze their bowling strategies, fielding execution, and spin effectiveness as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. With Shai Hope’s leadership and Hosein’s resurgence, the team aims to bounce back stronger.
Final Thoughts by The Trending People
The West Indies’ ODI series loss against Bangladesh underscores the critical role of spin bowling and consistent fielding in subcontinental conditions. While the defeat highlights gaps in execution, the emergence of players like Akeal Hosein and the steady leadership of Shai Hope provide a foundation for future growth. Strategic adjustments and competition within the squad could be key to improving performances in upcoming tours.