DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — With the T20 World Cup looming, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has made it clear that the upcoming three-match T20 series against Afghanistan is about more than just results.
For Sammy and his management team, the immediate priority is clarity, ensuring every player understands and executes his role with precision.
The Caribbean side arrived in Dubai ahead of Monday’s series opener, with Johnson Charles who was expected to join the squad later. The matches represent one of the final competitive opportunities to shape the team’s identity before the global tournament begins next month.
Winning matters, but roles matter more
Speaking ahead of the team’s first training session, Sammy stressed that while victory remains important, the broader objective is long-term readiness.
“I think the key for us is role execution, especially focusing on the guys who will be in the World Cup squad and making sure they fine-tune their roles. We’ve been trying to do that over the last two years, and I think some of the players have grabbed on to their roles, but some still probably need to fine-tune that, so that’s what these games bring.”
Sammy acknowledged the balance between competitiveness and preparation, emphasizing that the series offers a critical testing ground for players still refining their responsibilities within the team structure.
“Obviously the objective is to win, but for me and the group it’s more to solidify the roles heading into the World Cup,” he said.
Openings for the next generation
With several established players absent from the 16-member squad, Sammy believes the series presents a valuable opportunity for emerging and fringe players to push their case for selection.
“The West Indies team is here in Dubai in preparation for the World Cup. However, as you may know we’ve not named our World Cup squad yet, but I think it’s a great opportunity for some of the young players that we have here and the fringe players to start building for the future.”
He added that the series offers dual benefits, preparing likely World Cup players while simultaneously evaluating new talent under pressure.
Momentum against a formidable opponent
Despite missing personnel, Sammy remains optimistic that the team can generate momentum as they pursue an unprecedented third T20 World Cup title.
“Those that are here that will be in the World Cup squad, it gives them good preparation, especially against Afghanistan, a very strong team, in conditions similar to India.”
For Sammy, the location and quality of opposition make the series especially valuable.
“So I’m looking forward to start the year and hopefully gather some momentum, even though all of our players are not on deck.”
As the countdown to the World Cup accelerates, the Dubai series stands as a pivotal checkpoint, one where roles are clarified, combinations are tested, and belief begins to build.
