'It's simple, we've just got to put runs on the board' - Kraigg Brathwaite optimistic about Windies' chances in 2nd Test vs England

After a disappointing performance in the first Test match of the ongoing at Lord's, West Indies skipper Kraigg Brathwaite has emphasized the need for significant improvement in his team's batting as they prepare for the second Test against England starting from July 18 at Nottingham. 

The visitors struggled in the opening Test, managing only 121 and 136 runs in their two innings. These low scores came in conditions that weren't entirely unfavourable for batting. The team's inability to post competitive totals put immense pressure on their bowling unit. Brathwaite acknowledged the team's discussions about potential improvements.

“Obviously we've got to find a way... we've had some discussions about different things we can do better as a team. There are still a bit of positives with the bat. With the ball, as I said before, [we gave away] 50-60 runs too many, but it was a positive to get 10 wickets. But with the bat, we've just got to put runs on the board. It's simple,” he said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

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Brathwaite emphasized the importance of batters converting starts into substantial innings and making sure the batters stay at the pitch for a long time. He also believes that putting away the bad balls and putting in the hard work will get the side the right results.

“A few guys did get in and didn't go on. It's just important that you go on for longer. Because the longer you bat, the easier it becomes, and it's important to stay in that plan for as long as possible. Obviously you want to put away bad balls, that's what everybody wants to do. But it's that hard work that you do for 40 minutes, being able to take that to an hour, two hours,” he added. 

“And it is a balance, a mixture of putting away the bad balls, because when you put away the bad balls it gives them confidence. We just got to keep learning. You know, I think a lot of learning would have taken place in the first Test, and you've just got to believe in our ability and do it and aim to do it for longer periods,” he further added.

Focussing on building a foundation: Brathwaite

Addressing his performance, Brathwaite, who scored just six and four in the first Test, respectively recognized his crucial role as both captain and an opening batter.

“I know what I have to do, and it's obviously important to lead this team and lead the batting. Just to build this foundation is obviously what I'm focusing on and obviously that always puts us in a better position to score big runs,” Brathwaite continued.

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Despite the setback, Brathwaite remains optimistic and focused on the future and feels his side can upset the Three Lions at home and come back strong in the three-match series.  

“What's gone is gone. The first defeat is gone. The preparation period is gone. I think the guys are in very good spirits. Mentally, it's really important to believe in yourself. Guys are ready to go,” he concluded.