Getting to Know Dwayne Smith

Intense is probably an apt description for Dwayne Smith. The flamboyant batsman and enthusiastic fielder from Barbados comes across quite serious but that is because he is determined. The 29-year old is on a mission to dominate all formats of the game and make an indelible and impenetrable mark on the West Indies team that will secure his place for a long time to come. Our chat with him revealed a mature, polite, thoughtful young man who knows what he wants and is doing what it takes to achieve his goals.

Question: How does it feel to be a part of the West Indies team once again?

It’s always a great pleasure to play for the West Indies as it was my childhood dream to make the West Indies team. It is really a dream come true and I am glad to be representing my country.

Question: How do you make runs so fast?

I guess it’s my ability to make boundaries. The more boundaries you hit, the faster you score. It’s a gift that I have, and I’m glad I’ve got it.

Question: What do you make of your recall to the squad, and what can we expect from you?

I’m glad to be back in the squad for sure after being out so long. What you can expect is for me to give 100% and to always go out looking to perform for the team and get some consistent scores.

Question: Nice to see you back in Windies colours! Please join twitter for your fans.

I don’t think you’re going to see me on Twitter anytime soon. I’m not really into Twitter. Maybe in the future you’ll see some tweets from me but for now you can find me on Facebook.

Question: What makes you such a great fielder?

I guess it’s the hard work I put in by myself when I was growing up and then working with various fielding coaches I’ve had in the past. That’s probably made me a great fielder. Plus I have a great pair of eyes and hands as well.

Question: Do you think you’re ready to reclaim a spot on the test team?

At this moment in time I can’t really say because I haven’t played much four-day cricket recently but I’m trying to get in some good performances in the ODIs which will hopefully put some pressure on the selectors. Then when I get my chance in the four-day team for Barbados, I’ll also look to get some more consistent scores which will also put some pressure on them.

Question: Which cricket legend do you most look up to?  Which cricketer do you emulate?

Sir Vivian Richards for everything he has accomplished and who he is

Question: Why are you not bowling after bowling superbly in the IPL?

I guess that’s a question you have to ask other sources. I’m still bowling but at this point in time there’s no need for me because the team has been bowling very well. I just have to hang in there and wait until I get my chance.

Question: Congrats on your current form! I can’t help but notice that you have completely changed your style of play, batting more positively, showing a lot more respect to the bowlers and placing more value on your wicket. What would you say are/were the contributing factor/s to this positive change?

I would say it started back in 2009 when I was at Sussex County Cricket Club. Mark Robinson, the coach there, really put some work in with me behind the scenes. He showed me some videos, broke down my movement at the crease and basically just helped me and gave me insight into my game. Then I went into the nets and it took off from there. I also have to thank Coach Vasbert Drakes, Emmerson Trotman and all those who took on what I was told and what I learned and helped me put it all into action. All of that brought me to where I am today.

Question: How has playing with the West Indies team help build you as an individual?

I think it has made me more responsible. Being a West Indies player puts you in the limelight and a lot of people look up to you but at the same time, a lot of people are looking at you to do bad things as well. It keeps you in check and I like it because it gives me the opportunity to show people who I really am and not who they think I am.

Question: Why don’t you open the batting with Chris Gayle in the ODIs?

That’s up to the selectors and management. That opportunity may come but for now I like where I’m batting. I’m still at number three and I’m getting the chance to get in a good set of overs. It’s no problem for me. I just need to spend time at the crease and keep scoring.

Question: Which game/games do you want to dominate? Do you want to dominate T20 cricket, opening the batting with some quick scoring? Or do you prefer ODIs where you can make more patient centuries?

(Smiling) I would prefer both, along with test cricket. I just need to dominate all forms of the game. I can’t choose any one right now.

Question: Would you like to play tests? If so, what position do you think you should bat at?

Yes I would like to play test cricket again. I don’t know what position I should bat at. At this point I just need to get back in there and make sure I put in good performances whatever position I’m at.

Question: Are you single?

Yes I am single at the moment but not looking for anyone else as well.

Question: What is the one thing you want your fans to know about you?

Dwayne Smith gives his heart for the West Indies and any team he plays for. I also want them to remember me as a hard-hitting batsman and a very good fielder, and a good all-rounder.