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WorldCup – West Indies enter the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with firm belief in their ability to lift the trophy once again, even as many observers place other teams ahead of them in pre-tournament predictions. Head coach Darren Sammy has made it clear that confidence within the dressing room remains high ahead of their opening clash against Scotland at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Confidence Rooted in Past Triumphs

Addressing reporters before the tournament opener, Sammy drew parallels with the side’s historic runs in 2012 and 2016, when West Indies defied expectations to secure back-to-back T20 World Cup titles. On both occasions, Sammy led the squad and watched them thrive despite not being considered favourites.

He said belief remains central to their campaign. According to him, the current squad possesses the skill and depth required to compete at the highest level. However, he stressed that potential alone will not be enough. Execution — with bat, ball, and in the field — will ultimately determine how far the team progresses.

Sammy emphasized that no team enters a global tournament without ambition, and West Indies are no different. The challenge, he noted, lies in consistently delivering under pressure across all departments of the game.

Proud Legacy Amid Ongoing Challenges

West Indies stand among a select group of teams to have won the T20 World Cup twice. That achievement, Sammy said, remains a source of pride. He reflected on a period between 2009 and 2016 when the Caribbean side played a defining role in shaping modern T20 cricket with its aggressive and entertaining brand of play.

At the same time, he acknowledged that West Indies cricket has faced structural and developmental challenges over the years. Retaining players, nurturing emerging talent, and maintaining strong systems have all presented hurdles. Sammy admitted that building sustained dominance requires more than just individual brilliance; it demands stable foundations and long-term planning.

He spoke about aspiring to an era where success comes as a result of solid systems rather than in spite of difficulties. Drawing inspiration from the legendary generation led by Sir Vivian Richards, Sammy noted that past icons built a legacy of excellence that lasted nearly two decades. He believes the current group has the opportunity to carve out its own chapter in West Indies cricket history.

Bridging Generations and Building a New Era

Sammy also reflected on the transition between the 2016 championship-winning squad and the present team. He suggested that the previous group did not have enough time to pass on experience and insights to the next generation. Nonetheless, he believes that understanding the team’s history can serve as powerful motivation.

West Indies cricket, he pointed out, carries a global reputation that extends beyond sport. The players, he said, often become symbols of Caribbean pride on the international stage. Recognizing that heritage, Sammy hopes the current squad embraces the responsibility of shaping the future.

He encouraged players to view this World Cup campaign not just as a tournament, but as an opportunity to lay the foundation for sustained success. The goal, he indicated, is not only to compete strongly in 2026 but to begin a new period of consistency and achievement.

Scotland Challenge and Tournament Realities

Looking ahead to the opening match, Sammy cautioned against underestimating Scotland. He described them as a disciplined and competitive side capable of unsettling higher-ranked teams. In T20 cricket, he said, margins are slim and even small mistakes can prove costly.

Rather than focusing on external labels such as favourites or underdogs, Sammy stressed the importance of preparation and performance. Each match, he said, must be approached with clarity and purpose. The shorter format, by nature, narrows the gap between teams and rewards those who adapt quickly.

As West Indies prepare to begin their campaign at Eden Gardens, the message from their head coach is straightforward: belief must be matched by execution. If that balance is achieved, he believes the team can once again contend for cricket’s most coveted T20 prize.