Hinds relishing tough time in England

Hinds had the highest aggregate of 340 at an average of 68 in the three-Test series against Pakistan which West Indies won 1-0. They snatched the decisive victory by one-wicket in a gripping climax to the final Test here on Monday.

As the West Indians savoured their success before leaving for England on Tuesday, Hinds told the Caribbean News Agency (CANA): "It’s a great feeling knowing you are the Man of the Series. After all the hard work put in since the training camp, you can see the returns."

Hinds said: "Doing the best things, sticking to the basics and trying to do them more often than not" was responsible for his success.

"It is a challenge of life and that’s what it is all about. Cricket is a game for big men. It is a tough challenge and I am up for it," Hinds said.

The abiding memory for the 23-year-old batsman was provided by his innings in the drawn second Test in Bridgetown, Barbados, where he drove and pulled the Pakistan attack with disdain to all parts of the field on the way to his career-best maiden Test century of 165.

Expertly blending aggression with defence as he faced 234 balls and batted 351 minutes, Hinds struck 24 fours, dismissing suggestions he was weak against spin bowling.

"After the (recent) One-day series (against Pakistan and Zimbabwe in the Caribbean), there was a lot of speculation about me playing spin," Hinds said.

"But thanks to the coaches, (and by) doing a lot of hardwork, a lot of extra work after the guys have Left, it has come good."

Forced into the number three position after Brian Lara opted to take a break from the game in early march, Hinds sees it as a privilege.

"It was good to be batting at number three for the West Indies which is a premier position in the batting order," he said.