WI look to Lara for inspiration

West Indies have recalled leading batsman Brian Lara to revive their fortunes for the two-Test series against Pakistan starting on Thursday at Kensington Oval in Barbados.

Lara was rested for the three one-day internationals against Pakistan, who completed a 3-0 series sweep with a 22-run victory in the final match in St Lucia on Sunday.

Left-arm seamer Ian Bradshaw has been included in the Test squad for the first time, following his consistent performances in the one-day series, while batsman Devon Smith and fast-medium bowlers Reon King and Corey Collymore also return.

"There has to be a renewed approach and the return of Brian Lara adds another element to the team," convenor of selectors Joey Carew said in a statement.

"He is rested and will doubtlessly return invigorated.

"As the senior player in the team and the leading personality in world cricket, he will also inject a deeper sense of professionalism. We look forward to a successful series."

West Indies, who were beaten 2-0 at home by South Africa in their most recent test series, have won just one test in their last 18 matches -- against lowly Bangladesh.

Their one-day defeat to Pakistan on Sunday was their ninth in a row, the longest losing streak in their history.

Squad:

Shivnarine Chanderpaul (captain), Christopher Gayle, Devon Smith, Wavell Hinds, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Brian Lara, Dwayne Bravo, Courtney Browne, Corey Collymore, Daren Powell, Reon King, Ian Bradshaw, Fidel Edwards.