LONDON, England (AFP) — West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder goes into the first Test against England at Lord’s this week encouraged by the success his team achieved in his absence in Australia earlier this year.
The former captain missed the tour of Australia to play in the ILT20 in the United Arab Emirates during a Test series in January in preparation for the recently concluded T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the US (where West Indies failed to reach the semi-finals).
Holder’s decision reflects the increasing strain being placed on cricketers in all formats by a packed schedule and the growth of lucrative franchise leagues that are particularly attractive to players from less successful international teams in cricket, such as the West Indies.
“Over time, whatever solution there is, will be found,” Attorney General Holder told reporters in Rose’s courtroom on Monday.
“So far, it seems there is no solution, but that’s the situation.
“A couple of New Zealand players have just turned down central team contracts and a couple of South African players have also turned down central team contracts.
“That’s the direction of the game. It’s not my job to find a solution. Each person has to make their own decision.”
In the absence of the 32-year-old Holder, a young West Indies side defied the odds to finish the series level with a dramatic eight-run win in Brisbane, with paceman Shamar Joseph taking seven wickets to record Australia’s first Test win in 27 years.
“When they did what they did in Australia I was just happy,” Holder said.
“It gave me renewed energy to get back into the group and try to be a part of something special again.
“I’ve missed Test cricket. It’s been a while since I’ve played a Test match so I’m looking forward to it.”
Holder has been preparing for the three-match series in England by playing for Worcestershire.
“It was a really great experience,” Holder said of his time at New Road.
“There’s a new energy in walking into a dressing room where I feel loved.
“The love those kids showed me was like no other. I was so happy with the experience. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m so grateful to Worcester for hosting me.”
West Indies fast bowler Jayden Shields has also played county cricket for Sussex, including in a Championship match against Middlesex at Lord’s.
“The pitch was so flat in that match that it didn’t do the bowlers any favours,” Shields said. “I don’t want Test matches to end up like that.”
The last four series between England and the West Indies have all been won by the home team.
“I think it’s time for someone to break the shackles and now is the perfect time for us to come here and beat England,” Holder said.
“That’s a really impressive feat. I believe in every single person in this group.”
