Ottis Gibson backs West Indies bowlers ahead of Sri Lanka series

Ottis Gibson is back around the West Indies men’s team as part of the coaching support for the bowling group ahead of the home series against Sri Lanka, which begins with the first one-day international at Sabina Park on June 3.

Gibson, a former West Indies head coach, previously led the regional side from 2010 to 2014 and was in charge when the team won the 2012 ICC T20 World Cup. He has now been added to the staff as West Indies prepare for three ODIs, three T20 internationals and two Test matches against Sri Lanka.

The former West Indies player said he remains willing to assist the regional programme whenever called. Gibson said he supported West Indies before representing or coaching the side, and believes there is still strong talent in the Caribbean game. He said the key is developing that ability properly so players can deliver consistently at international level.

Gibson said his early work in camp included speaking with the bowlers about what they want to achieve in the series and the areas they believe need improvement before competition starts. He is also assisting Ravi Rampaul as the staff works to get the players ready.

Reflecting on the West Indies’ pace-bowling tradition of the 1970s and 1980s, Gibson said he has been encouraged by the size and strength of several young players in the training group. He said they have the physical tools for fast bowling, but must also build the fitness, commitment and appetite required for the demands of the role.

Gibson has also worked as bowling coach with Bangladesh, England and South Africa. West Indies will be seeking a better result after losing limited-overs series away to Sri Lanka in October 2024, when the hosts took the T20 international series 2-1 and the ODI series 2-0.