Ramdin still hopeful of Test comeback

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Seasoned wicketkeeper/batsman Denesh Ramdin says he is still hopeful of making a Test comeback, especially after being retained in the West Indies Twenty20 squad for the Rest of the World XI fixture in London next month.

The 33-year-old returned to the international side for the first time in 17 months earlier this month, when he toured Pakistan for the historic three-match T20 series in Karachi.
His selection came against the backdrop of his heavy scoring in the first class season when he piled up 799 runs at an average of 61, including three centuries.

And following a decent series against Pakistan, the Trinidadian told the NewsDay he was now eyeing a return to the Test arena, which was his preferred format.
“My job was to go out and make a lot of runs and I think I did that. That is my part and hopefully the selectors can do their part now,” said Ramdin, who was axed from all formats in 2016.

“I’m just waiting on the call to play Test match or T20. Whichever one, I’m happy to go out and play. Test cricket is the ultimate. Once I get back there I would like to continue where I left off in Australia where I had some good performances.

“We have some good cricket coming up in the next few months and hopefully if I get my opportunity I will go out and do my best.”
West Indies suffered a 3-0 whitewash in Pakistan but Ramdin did his chances of re-selection little harm, with a stroke-filled unbeaten 42 in the final T20.

Part of a depleted unit then after several senior players opted out of the tour, Ramdin will now be a member of full-strength Windies squad with the likes of captain Carlos Brathwaite, Chris Gayle and Andre Russell all returning.

Ramdin said he was pleased with his selection and was looking forward to the May 31 fixture at Lord’s.
“It’s a good feeling still. I didn’t do badly in Pakistan. It’s always (a privilege) to represent West Indies at any level,” said Ramdin, a member of the T20 World Cup-winning squad two years ago.

“It’s an important game against the Rest of the World. It’s gonna be a nice experience playing against all the other guys around the world on one team and meeting up the T20 champs (West Indies).
“It’s gonna be an exciting game and I hope a lot of people come out and support.”
Ramdin has played 74 Tests, 139 One-Day Internationals and 61 T20Is.