Sammy hails Windies’ ‘smart’ T20 series win

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy described the home T20 International series victory over Sri Lanka as "special," after the Caribbean side clinched a dramatic five-wicket win with just two balls remaining in the deciding match at Sabina Park. The triumph marks a significant milestone, being the team's first home T20I series win in almost two years.

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That was special.

While pace bowler Shamar Joseph's five-wicket haul and crucial late-order contributions from Sherfane Rutherford and Jason Holder were pivotal on the field, Sammy emphasized that the success was built on "thoughtful and smart cricket" throughout the contest. Joseph's impressive performance, which saw him finish the series with 11 wickets and a maiden T20I five-for, provided the crucial foundation for the victory.

"I think the game was set up up front when we bowled. Shamar Joseph, he continues to impress. We needed a victory," Sammy stated, underscoring the importance of the early breakthrough. The former West Indies captain also highlighted the composure shown by the middle order, particularly Rutherford's unbeaten 54 off 40 balls and Holder's quick-fire 21 not out off just five deliveries, which steered the hosts to 170 for five in pursuit of Sri Lanka's 169.

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I wasn’t too nervous. I was just hoping that we get over the line. But today it was a lot more thoughtful and smart cricket. Especially by Rovman (Powell) and Sherfane and followed by Jason Holder.

Sammy acknowledged the emotional weight of the win, especially in front of a passionate Sabina Park crowd that significantly lifted the team. "It’s been a while since we won a T20 series at home. In front of the Jamaican fans, I know they wanted a victory for us so I’m glad that we could finish the series on a high," he said. He believes the team is slowly rediscovering the performance and personality that the venue demands, noting, "I always tell the guys, we have to give the Sabina fans something to shout about."

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I think the game was set up up front when we bowled. Shamar Joseph, he continues to impress. We needed a victory.

Despite admitting the performance wasn't perfect, Sammy insisted it reflected progress in execution under pressure, a key focus as West Indies build towards future assignments. The win is viewed as an important step in the team's rebuilding phase, signaling a positive trajectory for the squad.

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It’s been a while since we won a T20 series at home. In front of the Jamaican fans, I know they wanted a victory for us so I’m glad that we could finish the series on a high.