Chris Gayle last played ODI cricket at the 2015 World Cup
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Opening batsman Chris Gayle and all-rounder Marlon Samuels are set to make their ODI comebacks after they were both included in the West Indies’ squad for the five-match ODI series against England.
Gayle has not played ODI cricket since the 2015 World Cup, while Samuels has not featured in the 50-over format since October 2016.
The decision to bring Gayle back comes after Cricket West Indies relaxed its policy on playing domestic cricket and offered an amnesty to the players.
Meanwhile, batsman Darren Bravo was not considered for selection, even after settling his despite with Cricket West Indies president Dave Cameron.
Last November, Bravo had his contract terminated and was suspended after he took to Twitter and called Cameron a “big idiot”.
The dispute between the duo went on for some time, but earlier this year, they put their differences aside and apologised to each other.
Spinner Sunil Narine, who is also an attacking opening batsman, was overlooked as well, but Cricket West Indies’ chairman of selectors Courtney Browne revealed that he wants to play in the Regional Super50 competition before being considered for selection when it comes to ODIs.
As for all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, he is currently captaining the Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
However, since he only recently recovered from a hamstring injury he sustained while playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) last year, Browne pointed out that the 33-year-old is likely to make his international return next year.
“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,” Browne said. “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.”
Pace bowler Jerome Taylor also made the cut, but batsman Roston Chase was axed from the squad.
The five-match ODI series between the West Indies and England gets underway on September 19 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
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