Cricket: Windies captain's tough test

Darren Sammy in action for the West Indies bats during day three of the first test match against New Zealand. Photo / AP

If the West Indies don't square their test series against New Zealand this week, it might spell the end of Darren Sammy's captaincy tenure.

Even if they do, the West Indian cricket bosses might feel it's time to look elsewhere.

The amiable allrounder from St Lucia has been in charge of the test side since 2010, during which the West Indies have won eight of 29 tests, lost 11 and drawn 10.

Sammy's own form has been below par too. He has averaged a disappointing 22.84 with the bat and has taken only 54 wickets at 40 apiece while in charge.

Quizzed on his future in charge, Sammy was diplomatic.

"In life my mother has always told me that nothing lasts forever," he said.

"I've always said through my tenure as captain whenever the guys who put me there see fit to move me on, I'm all up for the interests of West Indies cricket."

A series-levelling win at Hamilton in the third test starting on Thursday would go a long way to Sammy retaining the leadership. But he appears to be a compromise choice, with no other outstanding candidate. Certainly he ticks boxes on the scores of passion and determination.

''I feel good, I'm enjoying my game. But whatever decision is taken it's all good with me. I'll continue trying my best for the people of the Caribbean."

The West Indies have no test cricket after the Hamilton test until May-June when New Zealand are visiting the Caribbean for a full tour. Sammy hinted he'd like to still be calling the shots then.

''It's a long time till the next series, in our conditions. I'll be looking forward to seeing how they handle it. Last time (last year when the West Indies won the tests 2-0) they didn't handle it too well," Sammy said.