With Kemar Roach struggling with back problems, Windies have decided to re-call their all-rounder Andre Russell to the squad for the remaining two ODIs against England.
Randy Brooks / AFP
Russell, whose last ODI came against Bangladesh in July 2018, has had his fair share of injury issues of late, which has led to him missing his side's Tour of India last year. Making a decent comeback following the lay-off this year though, The 30-year-old all-rounder has featured in Bangladesh Premier League as well the ongoing Pakistan Premier League.
Speaking of Russell's inclusion, the Chairman of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel, Courtney Browne admitted that despite his recent knee injuries, they remain optimistic about his ability with the bat.
"Kemar Roach had to be withdrawn from the ODI series due to injury and will be replaced in the squad by the experienced Andre Russell for the last two matches. We believe Russell will add value to the squad," Courtney Browne, Chairman of CWI Selection Panel, said.
"We are well aware that although Andre's bowling may be limited due to a knee problem, his tremendous batting ability to power the ball in the back end of the game will be an asset to the team. The panel take this opportunity to wish captain Jason Holder and his team all the best for the remainder of matches in the series."
As far as the series is concerned, Windies recently drew odds in their favour by winning the second of their five-match series by 26 runs, hence levelling the series 1-1. Russell, on his part, will not be instilled directly for their Third game, which is due to be played on the 25th of February, but will be made available for the fourth and the fifth fixture.
The fourth ODI is set to be played on February 27 in Grenada, while the fifth and final game will be held in St. Lucia on March 2.
