Windies legends mentor young cricketers

Courntey Walsh looks back at his wicket as he is bowled during the West Indies’ second innings of the third test match at the Kings Mead Cricket grounds in Durban Dec.29, 1998. West Indies were all out for 259.
Photo by Peter Andrews/Reuters

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has introduced legendary fast bowlers Sir Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh to mentor some of the region’s up-and-coming players.

This is part of CWI’s ongoing commitment to nurturing regional talent, and both legends are actively engaging with West Indies Academy players at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua.

The mentorship program started on May 21, with robust discussions led by Sir Curtly, who shared personal stories and insights on West Indies cricket’s proud heritage, global achievements, and enduring spirit. It served as a reminder to the young players of the prestigious legacy they are now part of.

Sir Curtly and Walsh are considered two of the greatest fast bowlers to ever play for the West Indies.

The program will continue with technical and experiential sessions led by the fast-bowling legends.

Sir Curtly will lead red ball training, focusing on match awareness, tactical execution, and mindset development. At the same time, Walsh will guide players through a two-day practice match and offer in-depth mentoring.

Director of Cricket at CWI, Miles Bascombe, said the initiative would provide invaluable experience.

“There is no greater inspiration for our young players than learning directly from the legends whose names are etched in the history of West Indies cricket.

“This initiative not only enhances their technical skills but also helps instill the values, pride, and passion that define what it means to wear the maroon,” Bascombe said.

Academy Head Coach Ramesh Subasinghe said, “For our young players, understanding the history of West Indies cricket is just as important as developing their technical and tactical skills.

“Having legends like Sir Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh share their journeys, approaches, and values brings a depth of learning that no textbook or training manual can offer,” Sub-asinghe added.

“It connects our players to something greater than themselves and reminds them of the legacy they’re carrying forward every time they step onto the field.”

The mentorship sessions are part of a broader player development strategy introduced by CWI to ensure that promising young cricketers receive world-class guidance on and off the field.