While tributes poured in from around the world for the
now-retired West Indies Men’s white-ball captain, Kieron Pollard, there was one tribute fans were
eagerly waiting to hear. It was that of West Indies Head Coach,
Phil Simmons. On Sunday April 1, the wait was over as Coach Phil
broke his silence when he took to Facebook to pay homage to his
compatriot.
Since taking on the captaincy in 2019, “Polly” – as his teammates and
fans fondly called him – led the West Indies for 24 ODIs and 39 T20Is.
For 63 matches, not to mention countless practice days and team
meetings, Kieron and Coach Phil worked closely together to lead the
West Indies white ball teams to a resurgence in the shorter formats.
The passionate and charismatic leadership style
that Pollard brought to the team saw a spirited
performance from a team of youngsters that he
started molding since taking over the captaincy.
Pollard hangs up his Maroon jersey after 224
matches for the West Indies which includes an
ICC T20 World Cup title in 2012. And recently
in 2021, he etched his name in history when he
became the first West Indian and fourth player
to hit six 6s in an over in international cricket.
West Indies is scheduled to travel to The
Netherlands next for a three-match One
Day International series starting on May 31 in
Amstelveen.
“Kieron Pollard Skipper, it is sad to see you retire from the
maroon shirt so early but I completely understand. Your ability
to give players your backing and trust to deliver and your strong
leadership both on and off the field was a joy to work with. Your
passion for pushing players to build on skills and knowledge of the
game and more. Your unwillingness to settle for mediocrity was
a pleasure to work with. Your undoubted passion for the game
and especially the Maroon Shirt together with your desire to bring
success to the West Indies Cricket Team henceforth Cricket West
Indies will be missed. You will be missed. Although I am saddened
by your decision I totally respect it and I will continue to back you
through the next challenge… Best wishes to you Jenna and the
family going forward.” Phil Simmons
Far from a walk in the park, they were met with
turbulences of bubbles, strict restrictions and
challenges brought about by the COVID-19
pandemic. But, these unprecedented times only
served to cement their pre-existing bond and
build a stronger tower of trust between the
former two West Indies all-rounders.
That’s why it’s unsurprising that Coach Phil
expressed sadness in response to Pollard retiring
“from the Maroon shirt so early”.