Sammy says strong WTC finish could aid West Indies negotiations

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy says a strong finish to the World Test Championship cycle could improve the team’s position in negotiations with Cricket West Indies and help attract sponsors, as the side prepares for its final series of the cycle against Bangladesh. The opening Test is scheduled to begin October 28 at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Sammy said the team has ten possible days of Test cricket remaining in the cycle and urged players to make the most of them. He also said the squad had prepared well. Cricket West Indies recently announced a 25% reduction in international players’ retainer fees. Players have not yet signed national contracts for the upcoming period. Sammy acknowledged the board’s financial pressures, while saying the team’s immediate focus remained on performing well. The source material does not include a response from the board or player representatives on the contract negotiations. Sammy said strong performances could put the players in a better position to negotiate and attract sponsors. He pointed to prize money and additional incentives for teams finishing in the top five of the championship. West Indies finished eighth in each...