Chris Gayle and Samuels return to ODI squad against England

Windies cricket is coming back to its normalcy slowly as the selectors have recalled their most experienced duo for the upcoming series. Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels have returned to the ODI set up for the series in England. Both the players have not been a part of the side for three and two years respectively.

Gayle last played for West Indies during the 2015 Cricket World Cup in March 2015 whereas Samuels’ last appearance in the format was in October 2016. This will be a huge addition to the current Windies batting unit as they have been the least consistent in terms of performance delivery.

The chairman of selectors Courtney Browne welcomed both the stalwarts of Windies cricket back in the setup and hoped that the team plays well in England. “With regards to the selection of the ODI squad, the panel welcomes back Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels, who will both add value to our batting and help with the nurturing of the young batsmen in the team,” he said.

No place for Sunil Narine and Bravo brothers

Browne also cleared that Sunil Narine and Darren Bravo were not considered for the selection as requested by them. “Both Sunil Narine and Darren Bravo have declined to be considered for ODIs in England. Narine has however confirmed his desire to play 50-over cricket again but has asked to play in our Regional Super50 before he is considered and Darren said he was not available for selection. Dwayne Bravo said he is still not 100% fit, but is looking at a possible return to international cricket next year,” the chairman revealed.

The team now boasts of the batsmen like Gayle, Samuels, Shai and Kyle Hope, Jason Mohammed, Evin Lewis. It is bolstered by the all-round presence of their skipper Holder. The bowling attack looks a formidable one which troubled the Indian batsmen. Jerome Taylor, Kesrick Williams, Alzarri Joseph, Bishoo, Cummins Ashley Nurse have made it to the squad which will travel to England.

West Indies begin the ODI leg of their tour after the third Test against England at Lord’s which ends on September 11. They will play a one-off ODI against Ireland at Stormont on 13th of the same month. Then the Caribbean side will face England in a five-match ODI series which commences from September 19 and ends on 29th.

West Indies ODI Squad:

Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Miguel Cummins, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder (capt), Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor, Kesrick Williams