Former Border fast bowler Vasbert Drakes has been named one of three assistant coaches for the West Indies’ Test series against England.

Drakes, like fellow West Indian and current Proteas coach Ottis Gibson, represented the Eastern Cape outfit in the 1990s.

‘It is an honour to be back working with West Indies cricket again,” said Drakes, who coached the women’s team to World Twenty20 triumph in 2016.

‘As someone who played the game at the highest level, it has always been my wish to contribute to West Indies cricket and give back to the young players.

‘We have a tremendous group of players here, full of ambition and hungry for success. Our role as coaches is to offer leadership and sound advice, and to share knowledge and create an environment of learning. I want to see West Indies cricket grow and flourish.’

The 49-year-old Drakes played a dozen Tests and 34 ODIs between 1995 and 2004.

The other two assistant coaches are former Guyana all-rounder Esuan Crandon and ex-Middlesex and Sussex batsman Toby Radford.

‘I am passionate about the game of cricket and a true supporter of West Indies cricket, so ultimately I want to make a contribution to the game in the region and see the players perform at their best,’ added Crandon.

‘I am a calm individual and I’m here to do what is required to help the team succeed – that’s what I enjoy doing, coaching and helping others.’

Former Cape Cobras and Titans coach Richard Pybus was recently appointed the West Indies’ new head coach.

Photo: Gallo