Simmons has high praise for Bonner

West Indies head coach Phil Simmons says Kyle Mayers deserved all the accolades for his heroic match-winning double hundred performance; however, Nkrumah Bonner must be commended for his valuable contribution to the team's victory.

Mayers and Bonner shared in a crucial 216- run partnership to help the West Indies chase down a massive 395 runs to win the first Test. The right-handed debutant, who made 17 in the first innings, buckled down in the second innings and posted a maiden Test 50. His 86 runs came off a marathon 245 balls, and the St Catherine native batted for 325 minutes.

For Simmons, Bonner's partnership with Mayers was crucial in setting up the run chase.

"I think he played a special inning, too. I am disappointed he didn't get a hundred," Simmons said. "The way he batted, he deserved one. I am sure that will come if he continues to play this way.

Simmons believes the record-breaking win was one that has lifted the spirits within the team, and also the wider Caribbean.

"It's a huge thing for West Indies and for West Indies cricket, and the people on a whole. In a time like this, to win a game like that, we have lifted so many West Indians all around the world, giving them a real light in some dark times," said Simmons.

The coach, who is in his second stint with the regional side, said the team will not be celebrating for too long, as there is the little matter of the second Test right around the corner.

"You have to start from zero and do everything you did two days before the game. Most cricketers will know to start over. Sometimes we get into this hype when we have done well. Over the next few days, we have to get back down to earth and know that the game starts from zero again," he said.