AN INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE FOR THE MONTH OF JULY 2020 – Darren Sammy former West Indies Cricket Captain

I admire Darren Sammy for his honesty, especially in this day and age when a lot of people would be either ashamed or frightened to admit their faith in Jesus Christ.

‘Captaincy is overrated’
Darren Sammy was appointed West Indies captain until the end of the current season. He looks back at his stint thus far, the criticism that has come with it, and the way forward.

What have you discovered about yourself during this phase?

I think I am mentally very tough. I surprise myself. I am tougher than I thought. Even my team-mates have realized that.
They tell me, “Boy, you are a tough one, boy.”
I thank my mom for raising me in such a way that I am so mentally strong. I have utmost faith in Jesus Christ. He did nothing wrong and yet he was crucified. So I am prepared.
Ever since I made my debut I have always been under pressure.

How big a role does religion play in your life and in your cricket? I heard you wanted to become a priest?

I wanted to be a pastor.
One of my favourite lines is, “The almighty never gives you more than you can bear.” So I see it as: whatever comes my way I can face it.

Do you read the bible every day or pray regularly?

I have so many people praying for me. The more prayers go up, the more blessings comedown. I have so many people praying for me.

Who do you pray for?
Yes, I pray for my team-mates. I pray for us to go out there and put in a good performance. I pray for guidance, leadership, I pray for me to make the right decisions and I pray for me to go out there and perform. I ask God for a lot of things. We are a praying team. We pray every session and before every session. At the start of every day, first thing before the warm-up. Everyone. Together.

Do you only pray, or even preach?

I used to preach when I was a little boy. Preach around the neighborhood and the community.
But I guess God had a better plan for me. I wouldn’t say better plan, but cricket came in and I could still minister in a different way.
There is life after cricket. When I am home, I make sure I go to church.

For more details: http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/522853.html <http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/522853.html>