Darren Bravo – It has been difficult for the 25 year old from Trinidad to shake the label of being the next Brian Lara. From the exaggerated bat lift and composed stance at the crease to the booming cover drives and self-assured play against spinners, the left-handed Bravo has already being compared to the double World record-holder.
Cut from the classical mould of West Indies batsmen, Bravo exudes class and elegance at the crease and in a handful of international games so far, he has already staked a bold claim to becoming the latest in what has been a long line of West Indies master batsmen.
Not surprisingly, there was to be no tame start to his Test career. Making his debut against Sri Lanka on the subcontinent in November 2010, the elegant stroke-maker immediately made an impression, carving out three half-centuries in four innings. Displaying an excellent temperament and an equally adept technique, it was a sign of things to come from Bravo.
His maiden Test century was a big one – 195 against Bangladesh in Dhaka – and as if to emphasise his appetite for runs, he helped himself to successive hundreds against India in the series following. He confirmed his enormous ability with 136 in Kolkata and 166 in Mumbai to stamp his authority on the series and in many ways, announce himself as the future of West Indies batting.
spartansports.com.au
