John Campbell sees West Indies ODI reset taking shape before Sri Lanka series

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) — West Indies opener John Campbell sounded upbeat after the second day of the team’s high-performance camp, saying the squad’s planning and shared commitment have encouraged him before the ODI assignment against Sri Lanka.

In an interview with CWI Media, Campbell assessed the morning session and said the work already appeared to be helping the group. “I think our session went pretty well this morning. We’ve had some plans in place, and I think the way we’ve been implementing them over these training sessions — we’ve had conversations before this camp as well about what we need to do as a team to get better — and I think that everybody has bought into it and we’re heading in the right direction.”

Team management is presenting the 10-day exercise as more than a standard fitness tune-up. The camp is being used to prepare for the ODI series against Sri Lanka in Jamaica, while also serving as part of an 18-month push to improve West Indies performances in the 50-over game.

Campbell said the team could not afford to treat any opposition casually. “Well, obviously, every series matters. Every series carries a lot of weight so for us, we just want to take it a game at a time. If we go there and execute our skills, then we should be good.”

The left-hander also stressed that starting strongly would be important to the team’s chances in the series. “I think once we can start well, once we can get a win in the first game, it will aid us in winning the series,” he said. “I think once we have a platform, then we could build on it throughout the series.”

At Coolidge Cricket Ground, the squad has been going through demanding drills, match-style simulations and tactical discussions, with coaches placing emphasis on discipline and proper execution.