Root a model for Windies cricketers, says Sir Garry

BRIDGETOWN (CMC):

Legendary West Indies all-rounder Sir Garry Sobers has urged the current crop of West Indies players to follow the example set by England stroke-maker Joe Root.

The 80-year-old Sir Garry, Barbados' only living national hero and widely considered the greatest cricketer to have played the game, said Windies players lacked motivation and application - qualities which he identified in the new England Test captain.

"I think the English are more adapted and I think that they are more concentrated and they seem to be well on top of their game. They seem to work situations out very well," Sir Garry told a media throng last weekend.

"I love Joe Root. I think he's a wonderful player and I think he works it out. You can see when he goes in and pulls a ball, he tries to get himself in and he's got all the shots in the world.