I want to keep the fans smiling – Darren Bravo

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, January 26th 2011 – Trinidad and Tobago players Darren Bravo and Lendl Simmons are basking in the glory of their team’s success in the Caribbean Twenty20 tournament. The pair played key roles with the bat in the twin-island republic's capturing of the coveted title and the top prize of US$62,500.

Bravo, the 21-year-old left-hander won the award for People’s Choice Star; while Simmons, the right-handed opener who turned 26 today, was named the Star of the Tournament. They were delighted with their performances in the two-week event as well as capturing the title and earning a place in the Airtel Champions League to be played in India later this year.

“I am really working hard to get better and better at my game and I’m thrilled to play a part in my team’s success. I am more relaxed as a cricketer and I am happy I got some runs under my name. I am now looking forward to the WICB Four Day Tournament. I will be looking to get some more runs in that and some more big performances and get back into the picture. I think I am maturing as a player and learning more,” Simmons said.

“The people back home really supported us and we are all happy with that support. We have made it to the Airtel Champions League and we are calling on the people of Trinidad & Tobago and the rest of the Caribbean to continue supporting us, as we strive to make them proud with our performances.”

Bravo, played arguably the most outstanding innings of the tournament, a boundary-filled 70 against Barbados in their final first round match. He played a number of breath-taking strokes which brought the crowd of 7,500 to its feet.

“I really enjoyed batting in the Caribbean T20. I was feeling good at the crease and the ball was coming off the bat quite nicely. I have been doing a lot of work on my game and it was really a continuation from the way I started my Test career in Sri Lanka,” Bravo said.

When he walked to the crease in the final against Hampshire Royals, Bravo was given a standing ovation by members in the Trini Posse sitting in the Greenidge & Haynes Stand, situated next to the team dugout.

”I was happy to perform for the fans and bring smiles to their faces. The fans form a major part of the game and as a cricketer you are always happy when you get their support. That means a lot. I want to continue to give of my best for Trinidad & Tobago and West Indies cricket and keep the fans smiling.”