(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced a 15-member West Indies squad for the upcoming home T20I series against England, starting on December 13 in Barbados. Among the 15 names, the most shocking inclusion came in the form of all-rounder Andre Russell, who up until the squad announcement looked out-of-favour.
Russell last played for the West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2021 and since then, he awaited an international recall.
As now his wish is finally fulfilled, an old comment of his is doing the rounds on social media. The 35-year-old in July had made an attempt to reveal his World Cup ambitions, expressing his desire to represent the West Indies in a home 20-over tournament, scheduled in June-July next year.
“I am available. I want to be a part of the next World Cup so that would be something special to me if they can add me to the squad,” Russell had told the Jamaica Observer.
Russell was open to the idea of him playing a few series prior to the World Cup and giving up on some franchise leagues. Interestingly, West Indies’ upcoming series versus England will be their second-last T20I assignment before the next World Cup. After the five T20Is against England, the Men in Maroon will tour Australia, where they will also play three shortest-format games.
“I am willing to play a couple of series to make myself available. I am not just going to turn up and say I want to play at the World Cup from nothing at all.
“I know how everything works; I know I have to sacrifice a couple leagues in order to play for West Indies. I am willing to do that and try to give them the best chance in the World Cup, and whatever I can contribute in whatever area, I am willing to do it,” Russell added.