Joshua Da Silva, the wicketkeeper-battler for the West Indies, is unfazed by England’s early Ashes series preparations in 2025–2026 and sees it as a chance for his team to win the current Test series.
Da Silva’s optimism is evident as the Caribbean team prepares for the second Test at Trent Bridge, despite suffering a heavy defeat in the first Test at Lord’s. Following their commanding innings and 114-run victory at Lord’s, England now lead the three-match series 1-0. With a keen eye towards future Ashes triumph, English cricket entered a new era with the retirement of James Anderson and the sensational debuts of Gus Atkinson and Jamie Smith. Beyond his 27 caps, Da Silva demonstrated maturity and an understanding of England’s long-term strategy.
“That is the most important event on their calendar. In order to ensure that their squad is prepared for them, if they are looking forward, they are trying to develop a few players. It’s not bad of them at all, in my opinion,” Da Silva was cited as saying.
If they consider us as their property, we may benefit: Joshua Da Silva
Even the wicketkeeper-batter finds a bright side to England’s progressive mindset. The batter believes that the visitors will still have a strong chance to win the next games. Following the poor performance at Lord’s, where West Indies were bowled out for 121 and 136, the players had frank conversations. Joshua Da Silva accepted his batting inadequacies.
It doesn’t harm us, no. I don’t focus on studying it. We still have cricket to play. We may win the game or the series if they treat us like second-class citizens. I see that as a favour from me,” he went on.
“It is evident that several of us did not raise our hands during the batting. A couple of us were gently dismissed. After the first Test, we are really let down. We are eager for the second Test and have moved past it. We have also had our discussions. We are rebuilding and pushing hard for the upcoming Test, doing everything we can,” the 26-year-old continued.
In addition, Joshua Da Silva discussed his own development and position on the club. Even though he’s one of the more seasoned players, he keeps a low profile. He specifically identified players he looks up to, such as Holder, captain Brathwaite, and pacer Joseph, who can really understand the subtleties of the game.
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“I like to think I have some experience and have played enough. I’m still learning from Kraigg, Jason, and Alzarri in particular since I don’t know everything and am far from understanding everything about Test cricket. “I hope some of the boys can come up to me with questions and just admire the games that I’ve played,” Da Silva said in closing.
India
