Sir Viv takes swipe at Dillon

SYDNEY: Former West Indies chief selector Sir Viv Richards has taken a swipe at West Indies fast bowler Mervyn Dillon, criticising the Trinidadian for not providing leadership for the other bowlers in the West Indies attack. Richards, who in his time served as captain of some of West Indies’ best fast bowlers, said Dillon had gained plenty experience playing for the West Indies but was exhibiting little of this. “He should be providing our bowlers with the experience factor. I don’t believe he is living up to that,” Richards wrote in the Sydney Morning Herald recently.

“And with all the chances he’s been given, it is time for him to stand-up and accept the leadership role.” Richards continued: “It was clear just from watching the match on television that the West Indies bowlers need a leader; someone who will give them confidence.” The 30-year old Dillon, with 127 wickets in 105 One-Day Internationals since making his debut back in 1997 against South Africa, is the West Indies most experienced bowler. He has also played in 38 Tests, taking 131 wickets. Richards pointed out that young exciting bowlers like Dwayne Bravo needed someone like Dillon around, to lend experience.

“Look at Dwayne Bravo, who mixes it up well and is a clever kid,” Richards wrote. “Guys like him need a mentor in the fast-bowling department to help them through situations like those thrust on them by the Australians the other night (opening VB series match).” He continued: “It’s tough for (Brian) Lara captaining when others in the side are letting him down. When there are individuals who aren’t providing the experience factor they should, the weak links in the chain make it difficult for captains.”