Rising West Indian cricket star Ramnaresh Sarwan has attributed his success to 'inspiration and advice' from Australian Test captain Steve Waugh, who acted as a big spur in his now blossoming cricket career.
"In Australia, I asked Steve Waugh what was the key to his success and he said his mental toughness and patience," Sarwan said. "Getting advice from him was very good."
A mentally tough Sarwan was responsible in repelling Waugh's charge for a 4-0 scoreline against the West Indies in the present tour when he cracked a hundred and powered his team to a record-breaking fourth innings score of 418 in the Antigua Test.
Sarwan said he could identify himself with Waugh since like the doughty Australian he also took a long time to reach his maiden hundred.Waugh took 26 Tests for his first Test century and for Sarwan it could be possible only in his 28th Test.
"Steve Waugh's been a big influence, not just on me but on cricketers in general," Sarwan added.
Sarwan had a torrid time as a 20-year-old youngster touring Australia three seasons ago, scoring 0, 0, 2 and 1 in the first two Tests. Though West Indies still lost the series 5-0, the young Guyanese said the tour was an eye-opener for him in more ways than one.
"The tour of Australia did a lot for me, in terms of being mentally strong, because I had a pretty rough time there. Those guys play cricket very hard," said Sarwan.
In the recent Test series, Sarwan missed the first Test due to finger injury but averaged 47 in the Test series and is now looking to match his stuff in the one-dayers when he averages 55 from 34 games.
Sarwan might be comfortable with his game but he is looking to change his nickname 'Sars'. "It's not a good name any more, is it," said Sarwan.
The alternative 'Ronnie' is not liked by him either as it is linked to his habit of being run out.
"He's is the best batsman in terms of production in the West Indies team right now," added Michael Holding.
