'We have a bunch of guys who are very positive'

Marlon Samuels believes his growing maturity and hard work while recovering from serious knee problems have paid off in the lead-up to the first Test against Australia. Samuels had a stunning warm-up for the three-match series when he scored 257 against Queensland at the weekend before following it up with 5 for 87.

The impressive double will ensure greater responsibility as the young West Indian outfit test themselves against the world champions. "I wasn't really surprised," Samuels said of his efforts in the tour game. "I've been doing hard work and we all know hard work pays off in the end. I've worked on being more mature and patience is the most important thing for me at the moment."

Samuels said his greater emphasis on fitness had already shown strong results and he was in top condition. "I think it played a major part in my batting [against Queensland]," he said. "But with most of my centuries I like to go on and get a big one."

Knee problems have hampered Samuels' Test career, which began in Australia five years ago, and the last instance of surgery occurred when he was forced to leave the South Africa tour in 2003-04. "I started out well, but if you know my story injury has played a major part in my career," he said. "I've been working very hard on my knee so I can play as much as possible."

West Indies have picked a large pace contingent and Samuels expects to chip in with his part-time spin to break up the fast men's load. "I've learned to vary my pace as much as possible," he said. "I think they will get me to bowl longs spells and I'm up for it. I'm up for anything."

Samuels said the squad was close-knit and there was no lingering discontent over the team sponsorship issues that resulted in a massively under-strength side playing the Test series against Sri Lanka. He also dismissed the concerns of Michael Holding, who questioned the team's attitude on tour.

"We are spending more time together and we are working very hard as one unit," he said. "We have a bunch of guys who are very positive and will go up against any team."