New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) As the West Indies gear up for the second Test against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium this Friday, they are grappling with significant pressures both on and off the field. Following a humiliating defeat by an innings and 140 runs in Ahmedabad, where they failed to surpass 200 runs in either innings during a combined span of merely 89.2 overs, concerns are mounting.

Batting icon Brian Lara has voiced his disapproval, questioning the current team's desire to represent the Caribbean and lamenting the decline of a side he once captained with pride. With financial challenges and the exodus of talent to franchise leagues, hopes are pinned on the Caribbean team to rise and stage a remarkable comeback in New Delhi.

Captain Roston Chase, who felt the weight of embarrassment after the Ahmedabad loss, asserts that the key lies in securing solid starts and building on them for better batting performances. For a team already low on confidence and facing international scrutiny, this straightforward advice from Chase provides an opportunity to reset and confront the formidable Indian side.

"I don't believe the players lack confidence. It’s about getting that one solid score, a good start, to then build on it. Once you achieve that vital innings or a century, it instills the belief that you can do it," Chase stated in the pre-match press conference on Thursday.

He emphasized that while the pressure is palpable, it is crucial for the batters to absorb it and find ways to score, thereby shifting the burden back onto the Indian bowlers. "That’s our greatest challenge. We simply need to get that start and build from there to be successful," Chase elaborated.

Chase also revealed that he had conversations with Lara, Sir Viv Richards, and Sir Richie Richardson at a team event on Wednesday. They reiterated the importance of belief, noting that while the team is currently struggling, change is inevitable.

"The transformation starts now, hinging on each player's mindset and confidence. We must keep encouraging one another to play positively and not lose momentum," he said.

When asked about the younger players' difficulties sustaining their batting in Test matches, Chase remarked, "I can’t speak for others, but I believe it's primarily about confidence and consistent exposure to quality first-class cricket. They must continuously improve upon any weaknesses that emerge throughout their careers."

"It's vital to maintain a positive approach at the crease and always aim to score. Even in Test cricket, survival shouldn’t be the only mindset. While initial nerves are natural, once past that, the focus must remain on the present and maintaining concentration for extended periods," he added.

Chase captured the attention of Indian fans in 2016 with a resilient 137 not out that salvaged an improbable draw in Jamaica. He has previously toured India and feels confident about his batting in Tests, even as he regretted his early dismissal in Ahmedabad.

"I felt good at the crease. I had a solid first innings but was undone by a good delivery. Nonetheless, I believe I could have played it better. I’m feeling positive after my recent form in white-ball cricket against Pakistan and the CPL," he shared.

"Test cricket demands longer stays at the crease. It's about batting for 200 balls instead of just 100. They say a Test century requires four sessions — it’s about digging deep for those sessions and being present, not dwelling on past deliveries or overs. Staying focused is my current challenge," he explained.

On the matter of diminishing hunger among players due to the rise of white-ball cricket, Chase affirmed his unwavering commitment to representing the West Indies in any format. "Red-ball cricket is the foundation. If you excel at it, transitioning to other formats becomes easier. All cricket legends have emerged from red-ball cricket. It’s the ultimate test for any cricketer," he stated.

"Playing for the West Indies has always been my dream. Although I had opportunities to engage in franchise cricket, I chose to prioritize the national team. I can't claim that I'm not hungry, especially since I am now taking on the captaincy role, which is a significant step. This demonstrates my dedication to the maroon, and I will always give my all for it," he concluded.