Former T&T manager Colin Borde says that batsman Darren Bravo was motivated to become a great player after studying the history of West Indies cricket. The 21-year-old Bravo has established himself as a class act since making his Test debut against Sri Lanka last month, hitting half centuries in each of his first three completed Test innings against the world's third-ranked team. Borde, who has known the youngster since his early teens and keeps in regular contact with him through Blackberry Messaging, said Bravo has been inspired by the legendary players of the past and has spent his life trying to emulate them. "Darren understands the legacy of West Indies cricket and the responsibility of wearing the maroon cap.
He is extremely interested in cricket history and realises that he is part of something larger than himself. "We have had many discussions over the years and I know that he has set his sights on becoming a special batsman and wants to play a part in the rebirth of West Indies cricket. "If we could get more young players to have that attitude then I think we would see a stronger commitment from them." Borde was pleased to see Bravo post scores of 58, 80 and 68 but pointed out that he needed to remain focused on the tasks ahead. "It's very heart-warming to see him doing so well and I am very proud of him. He's worked very hard as a young man but his job has only just begun. He's a cool customer under pressure and understands his role as the number three batsman.
I hope he continues to focus ball by ball, hour by hour and session by session." Borde added that it was the responsibility of the senior players and management to help Bravo make a successful transition from regional to international cricket. "We have been 'BBMing' (Blackberry Messaging) regularly and I have been giving him words of encouragement. It's important for him to have that support when he's so far away from home," he said. "He is always seeking advice from the senior players and it's good that he has people like Gayle, Chanderpaul and his older brother looking out for him because he needs to be guided in the right direction and learn as quickly as possible."