West Indies coach disappointed at Andre Russell’s unavailability
Star all-rounder Andre Russell responded to West Indies coach Phil Simmons’ comments on Instagram shortly after they were made, lamenting the fact that players put playing in T20 competitions ahead of representing their nations. The coach commented that it is heartbreaking. What can you do, though? He doesn’t believe he should be pleading with people to represent their nations on the field. He believes one will make himself available if he wishes to represent the West Indies.
Russell posted a photo of a news feed about Simmons’ remarks on Instagram with the caption “I know this was coming but am going to stay quiet!!!”
Russell has participated in 67 T20 International matches and last played for the West Indies in this competition in 2021.
Players like Russell and Narine—who haven’t competed for the Windies since 2019—play in a variety of domestic leagues, including the Big Bash League, the Indian Premier League (IPL), and the Caribbean Premier League(CPL).
Simmons added that people now have the opportunity to travel to numerous locations, and it is just the way things are if they select those locations over the West Indies.
Currently, West Indies and New Zealand are playing a T20I series.
Meanwhile, the West Indies will be touring Australia next month. Here are the details and schedule for their upcoming matches:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 5 (Wed) | Australia vs West Indies 1st T20I | Carrara Oval, Queensland | 08:10 GMT |
| Oct 7 (Fri) | Australia vs West Indies 2nd T20I | The Gabba, Brisbane | 08:10 GMT |
| Nov 30 (Wed) – Dec 4 (Sun) | Australia vs West Indies 1st Test | Perth Stadium, Perth | 02:20 GMT |
| Dec 8 (Thu) – Dec 12 (Mon) | Australia vs West Indies 2nd Test | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide | 04:00 GMT |
On the other hand, the big event of the 2022 T20 World Cup is expected in about two months. The Calypso Kings have not yet decided on their finest eleven, though. The absence of the T20 players doesn’t seem to have too much of an impact on head coach Phil Simmons. Simmons is eagerly anticipating the crucial T20I series against New Zealand. West Indies will continue to be adaptable with their batting line-up and use the horses for courses approach, according to the Trinidadian.