Describing Shivnarine Chanderpaul as "someone special" to the West Indies side, Darren Bravo today said the most-capped Caribbean Test player makes the batsman's job easier in the middle.
"He's someone very special. He means a lot to the team. We know what he brings to the table. We just want to wish him best of luck in the series," Bravo said of Chanderpaul, who struck an unbeaten 91 to help his side post a commanding 333/4 against the UPCA in a three-day practice match, here.
Chanderpaul has already eclipsed Courtney Walsh as the most-capped West Indies player and would be eyeing his 150th Test cap in Mumbai, which will host legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar's 200th and last Test.
Bravo said West Indies players happily seek Chanderpaul's advice whenever they want and look to build their innings around him.
"He's the most experienced player in the side. Whenever a youngster or any player needs some sort of advice, you can go and ask him any question. He's happy to help. While batting also, he makes it easier at the other end. It's great to have him around. Hope to have him for a long time as well."
Bravo hit a fluent 61 in a 112-run second wicket stand with Kieran Powell and the former said he was happy to be back among runs in the longer version after an eye surgery six months back.
"To be honest, this was my first competitive game with the red ball since my eye surgery. I've not played any competitive games with red ball since my eye surgery. It was good to spend some time out there in the middle.
"I grew in confidence once I started hitting my shots. I hope it would be a special series for me and the whole West Indies team. Having said that, I want to make sure that my game is going in the right way before the first Test," Bravo added.
