Perreira: King ‘lucky’ to keep Test spot - But WI coach Sammy defends dual role for batsman

Veteran broadcaster Joseph 'Reds' Perreira has launched a scathing critique of Brandon King's continued selection in the West Indies Test squad, stating the Jamaican batsman should "consider himself very lucky" to be named for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

King's place in the red-ball setup has come under scrutiny after a modest start to his Test career.

In eight innings to date, his highest score remains 75, against Australia, in Grenada last July.

King's recent form offers little comfort, with scores of just 13 and five, batting at number four, in his most recent Test in India.

Despite these lean returns, West Indies coach Daren Sammy is firmly defending the selection, revealing he has a "special role" in mind for the talented right hander.

"One of the reasons why he's still there in the Test setup, obviously, Shai Hope played in his position at number four, but we also see a dual role for Brandon in the Test team," Sammy explained.

The coach hinted at a potential solution to King's middle-order issue, suggesting an audition at the top of the order.

"You know, if you notice, we have John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul at the opening spot, but it's also a role that we've spoken to Brandon about doing in the future. So he's out here working, and he's been preparing. Since he wasn't in the ODI series, he's been preparing in the conditions, just in case he is called upon for the Test series."

However, Perreira is far from convinced by this potential tactical shift. He expressed surprise that Sammy would publicly float the idea before a crucial warm-up match.

"I think that Brandon King should consider himself very lucky to get another chance to wear West Indies colours," Perreira stated.

"Surprisingly, the coach is considering using him as an opener. I don't think that should have been said at this point. You have a three-day game coming up. Wait until the three-day match is played, and then you can maybe look at form, look at performance, et cetera."

Looking at the broader challenge, Perreira was pessimistic about the team's chances in New Zealand and suggested that Cricket West Indies should enlist the help of a legendary figure to aid the struggling batting unit.

He believes the task ahead will be "too much for the regional side" and called for the appointment of Brian Lara as a dedicated batting coach.

The debate sets the stage for a tense lead-up to the Test series, with King's position and role firmly in the spotlight.

All eyes will now be on the upcoming three-day game in Lincoln starting on Tuesday, to see if the batsman can justify his coach's faith or confirm his critics' doubts.