The Jason Holder-led side took a 1-0 lead in the three-Test series with a four-wicket win at the Ageas Bowl, chasing down 200 on a day five Southampton pitch. The match, the first Test of the summer, signalled the return of mainstream international cricket after four months.

During a rain break on the first day of the Test, commentator Michael Holding had captured the attention of the public through a moving speech on the importance of the campaign, and the need to educate the masses on the subject of racism.

“And the decision to come over to England and play – there is something special about playing in England that sees West Indians want to rise, and get extra motivated.”

“The whole scenario of this Test match,” Sammy said, “the significance of cricket being back, what it meant to see a black team on TV after this time where sport has not been played, that provided extra motivation for the West Indies.”