Deciding match rained out as India and West Indies share T20I series
Less than eight overs were bowled in the fifth and final T20I between India and West Indies as heavy rain fell in Bengaluru.
Darren Sammy hails West Indies progress after India T20I series draw
The fifth and final match was washed out in Bengaluru, denying the visitors a chance to secure a series victory on Indian soil. West Indies had lost all three of their previous bilateral T20I series in India, winning just one of seven matches, but Sammy believes they proved they can compete with the reigning T20 world champions.
"I'm pretty sure when the series started, we probably didn't have a chance. But that was just the opinion of others," he said.
"We played against the defending champions and we've matched them, and in certain areas we've outplayed them, especially in their backyard."
The result builds on a promising run that includes a home T20I series victory over Sri Lanka and a semi-final appearance at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India.
"The swagger is back, the confidence is back," Sammy said, crediting his players' belief and willingness to win.
Beyond the on-field progress, Sammy hopes the performances will help West Indies attract investment to address the financial challenges facing Caribbean cricket.
Cricket West Indies announced major financial restructuring last month, including a 25 percent pay cut for contracted international players. The board's difficulties have been linked partly to a 1997 ICC decision that reduced touring income for smaller cricketing nations.
"My mom always said, you must have a care factor. No matter what you do in life, you should never lose that care factor. I think we're in a position where we need somebody to put a shoulder around West Indies cricket - financially, that is," Sammy said.
"Series like this, here in India against the best team in the world, puts us in a conversation closer to that."
Sammy contrasted India's established infrastructure with the challenges West Indies face, hoping the series will strengthen discussions with sponsors and stakeholders.
Although the washed-out decider prevented his side from completing a historic series win, Sammy believes the recent performances provide a foundation for further improvement.
His priority now is to maintain the team's renewed confidence and consistency while building on the progress made in recent months.
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