KINGSTON, Jamaica – The West Indies cricket team have been hailed by the Honourable Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, as pulling off an astounding victory against South Africa in the first test at St. Georges Park last Saturday (Dec. 29).
In a telephone conversation with new West Indies test Captain Christopher Gayle this afternoon, Minister Grange told him that his inspired leadership of the team combined with the players’ enthusiasm, determination and mental toughness, ensured that the West Indies tasted test match victory over a team ranked above them for the first time in seven years.
“I am calling to congratulate you all as Minister of Sports in Jamaica but you can be assured that all of us here at home in the Caribbean are elated over the team’s performance. We are so proud that you beat South Africa, the number two ranked test match playing nation in the world, against all odds and predictions and inside of four days. It was not the series, as you said after the match, but it is a glorious win to be savoured.”
As she asked the West Indies Captain to pass on her congratulations to the rest of the team, she said it was her fervent wish that the West Indies would indeed go on to win their first test series victory in South Africa and make Caribbean even prouder.
The West Indies Captain said he and the team were delighted that Minister Grange took the time to call and that it would serve as further inspiration to them to give of their absolute best in the remaining test matches and one-day internationals.
“We know that everyone is happy for this performance but we also know that people are wondering if we can keep it up. I know that what the guys want more than anything else for the fans to be proud of us. Tell the fans that we will continue to do our best and that we love them,” Captain Gayle told the Minister.
