Justin Greaves, who received Player of the Series for his game-winning bat and ball performance, played a major role in the West Indies’ 1-0 victory against Sri Lanka in the Test series.
The West Indies were able to draw and win the series thanks to the all-rounder’s amazing 180 in the first innings of the second Test. He finished the two games with an outstanding all-around performance, taking four wickets.
At the press conference following the game, Greaves stated, “Once you get out there, the captain asks me to do a job, I try to do the job to the best of my ability, whether batting or bowling.” “Always wanting to do better – I think that’s the start of it.” I’m constantly aiming for high scores. Talk about being hungry all the time in the dressing room.
In the end, it’s more for the team than for yourself. Because occasionally you may receive a score of 100 or 90, which may be good for you but insufficient for the team. And I always put the team first. He went on, “So, thinking big, thinking big scores really, really help the team.”
Speaking at the conclusion of the second Test, Justin Greaves said he has always prioritised the success of the team over his own objectives.
It took 510 minutes and 325 deliveries for Justin Greaves to score 180 runs, demonstrating his persistence and determination at the crease. It was also his third century in Test cricket after an undefeated innings of 115 and 202.
“I think this will be top of the list – contributing to a team win and then contributing to a series win as well,” he said. “Winning our first team series in the Test Championship was a huge accomplishment for me,” he remarked.
The 31-year-old described the victory as one of his greatest career achievements because it was the West Indies’ first series win in the current World Test Championship cycle. “Justin Greaves, just a while ago, he spoke to Floyd [Reifer, the batting coach], talking about he having to zone back in.”
Sammy remarked, “You know, he missed out in the first Test [3 in his only innings], and you could see he was so determined.”
After the match, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy praised Greaves and revealed how dedicated the all-rounder had been following his poor showing in the first Test, where he managed just three runs.
The West Indies coach also credited Justin Greaves’ recent success to his positive attitude and confidence: “I’m like, whatever he’s done, and that’s not even cricket.” He appears to be enjoying the game based only on his social abilities.
I’ve noticed a change over the past year, and it’s working, so [he should] continue. “May it last for a very long time,” Sammy said.
After an excellent all-around effort against Sri Lanka, Justin Greaves will look to maintain the same level of performance in the West Indies’ next two-match home Test series against Pakistan.
