New Delhi: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy isn’t one to shy away from tough conversations, and after a day of frustrating calls during the first Test against Australia in Barbados, he made sure to voice his concerns. After Day 2 ended, Sammy met with match referee Javagal Srinath to discuss the series of decisions that left the West Indies camp scratching their heads.
Two moments, in particular, stood out first when captain Roston Chase was given out lbw to Pat Cummins, even though the West Indies players believed there was a clear inside edge. Later, Shai Hope was ruled caught behind, with the third umpire judging the catch as clean despite doubts in the camp.
Adrian holdstock probably the worst umpire of this generation… Roston Chase was given out despite a clear deviation. What a shame! @ICC please take some action about this. #WIvsAUS pic.twitter.com/5ORQlWe7WO
— Not Roudra (@Roy755384) June 26, 2025
Speaking after day 2 play, Sammy explained the team simply wants to understand the decision-making process. He said, “We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is.”
Frustration building from previous tours
Sammy’s concerns are not new, as he also raised issues about TV umpire Adrian Holdstock’s officiating during the West Indies’ recent ODI series in England, suggesting a pattern that has become difficult to ignore.
Sammy said, “I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating.” He was quick to add that the team is not looking for favours, only for consistency across the board.
Sammy was mindful of the protocols around criticising officials publicly and urged his players to focus on the game instead of the decisions. Despite the frustration, Sammy noted that his team remains in a strong position in the match, even though they have made mistakes themselves by dropping catches.
Australia also felt the heat
Interestingly, the Australians also had their grievances. Mitchell Starc questioned whether the visuals and audio were correctly synced during a review on the first over of Day 2, which went against them and cost valuable runs. Starc shared, “It sort of felt like, or looked like, that the Snicko and the images were out of sync to some capacity.”
Seeking fairness, not favouritism
Sammy did make his point clear that he isn’t questioning the integrity of the officials rather seeking fairness. After all, the game is built on trust, and he wants to ensure that his players can walk onto the field without doubts clouding their minds. “We’re all humans. Mistakes will be made. I just want fairness,” he concluded.
As the Test progresses, all eyes will remain on the performances on the field but the conversations off it will continue, with Sammy hoping for clearer communication that benefits the spirit of the game.