**By Parth Dhall | Oct 08, 2025 | 05:05 PM**
### The Story: Daren Sammy Compares West Indies Cricket Decline to “Cancer”
Former West Indies captain Daren Sammy has drawn a stark and powerful comparison between the decline of his Test side and a “cancer” that has been developing over a long period.
Speaking ahead of the second Test match against India in Delhi, Sammy acknowledged that role models in the shortest formats of the game are readily available for younger players. However, he also emphasized that these players can only work with the resources currently at their disposal.
### Candid Remarks on Deep-Rooted Issues
West Indies suffered a heavy defeat in the first Test of the two-match series against India, losing by an innings and 140 runs. Ahead of the second Test, Sammy did not shy away from addressing the struggles faced by West Indies cricket — particularly in the Test format.
“I know now I’m under the microscope. I’m in the middle, and we’re open to criticism,” Sammy said. But he was quick to point out that the problems the team faces didn’t begin just two years ago; rather, they are deeply rooted in the system.
### The Cancer Analogy: A Metaphor for West Indies Cricket Struggles
Sammy used a powerful metaphor to describe the ongoing challenges: he likened the issues plaguing West Indies cricket to “cancer that’s already in the system.”
He explained, “If you don’t get cancer, you know what happens. Our problems don’t lie on the surface. It’s rooted deep into our system.”
He also highlighted the financial difficulties that have plagued the West Indies cricket board for years. “The difference between the top 3-4 teams in the world versus the bottom four is huge. We’ve been struggling with finances for a long time,” Sammy added.
### Missed Commercial Opportunities and Financial Struggles
Sammy expressed regret over missed commercial opportunities during the era when West Indies cricket was at its peak.
“We’re playing five Test matches, four months in one place, entertaining the world,” he said, reflecting on cricket’s global appeal. Yet, he pointed out that due to mismanagement and other setbacks over the years, the West Indies are now in dire need of financial resources to enable growth and development.
### Woeful Numbers Reflect Current Struggles
Statistics highlight the Windies’ ongoing challenges in the longest format. According to ESPNcricinfo, West Indies have recorded 13 sub-200 totals in their last 15 Test innings. Moreover, in those 15 innings, the team has failed to bat out 90 overs or even a full day.
Notably, since the start of this century, the Windies have won only two Tests against India — with their last victory dating back to 2002. They have lost six of their last seven Tests overall, underscoring the difficult times faced by Caribbean cricket.
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Daren Sammy’s candid remarks serve as a grim reminder of the deep-seated issues that require urgent attention if West Indies cricket is to regain its former stature.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/daren-sammy-highlights-decline-of-west-indies-in-test-cricket/story
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