Golden opportunity for West Indies, says Dyson

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC)

West Indies coach John Dyson has urged his less decorated players to use the Australia series as the time to stamp their authority on the game.

The Australian said while the experienced Windies players had crucial roles to play in the three-Test, five-match one-day international tour the "less high profile players" should see the series as a "golden opportunity".

"This is the time for our guys to play their best cricket. This is a really great opportunity for them. As I look at the main players it is a chance to further enhance their reputations," said Dyson, the former Test opener.

"When you look at the less high-profile players, it is a golden opportunity for them to put their hands up and say, "I have arrived', and really put some big numbers on the board.

"I have been telling them this is the time to really deliver and be counted, and what better occasion than against the best side in the world and in front of your supporters on home turf. If everyone delivers the team sill surely benefit."

West Indies open their tour with the first Test at Sabina Park starting next Thursday, and will be seeking to recapture the Sir Frank Worrell Trophy.

The hosts have not beaten Australia in the Caribbean in 17 years but are hoping they can build on their strong showing in the recent Sri Lanka series to stop the rut.

"We played well against Sri Lanka and we want to continue the work which we started there," Dyson said.

"We know the quality of players we will be up against but know we have quality on our side as well and we will be competitive and confident against the Australians."

West Indies have been in camp since Monday as they prepare for the challenge of the world champions.

The highlight of the week-long camp will be a two-day match at the Stanford Ground today and tomorrow. So far the players have been involved in intense net sessions, fielding session, gym and pool work, video and computer analysis, as well as personal development.

"The camp has been a good awakener for everyone. A lot of the players are back in the groove now and will be ready when that first ball is bowled," Dyson said.