Bridgetown (Barbados) August 17 : Ace West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has declared he is keen to be a part of his country’s team in the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia in two months’ time, however, he Russell has also stated that Cricket West Indies (CWI) must also agree to his conditions.Russell who last played in his nation’s team in the last ICC T20 World Cup in Dubai He said that at the age of 34, it was his goal to win the Cup for his country.
Speaking to former teammate Daren Sammy regarding his availability for international duty prior to a match in the domestic league in England, Russell told Sky Sports: “I always would like to be a part of the team and help others.At the end of the day, if I am not in agreement with specific terms.they (CWI) must respect my terms too.When it comes to the end of the day, it’s what it is.
“We have families and must ensure that we are giving our best chance to succeed in only one job.It’s not like I’m able to start all over again.I’m 34 and want to win another World Cup — or two more – for West Indies because at the end of the day, I’m here and I’m just taking each day as it comes,” he added.
Russell has played in 67 T20Is and was a member of West Indies’ successful T20 World Cup winning teams twice.He was a two-time holder of the trophy in 2012 and in 2016.
Russell’s comments came a few days following West Indies coach Phil Simmons expressed his displeasure at the inaccessibility of important players at international levels, with Russell and the likes of Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine and Russell are reported to not showing enthusiasm to play in the T20 World Cup.
But, Russell insists he wants to be involved in the process of preparing.
“Of course,” of course.The maroon is everywhere.In all honesty I own two franchise hundreds, and I wish that those hundreds played for West Indies.I’m not regretting this right now.I loved playing for the Jamaica Tallawahs but with those two hundred are more memorable in international cricket.” he added.
After his time in England, Russell will return to the West Indies to play for the Trinbago Knight Riders in the month-long Caribbean Premier League (CPL) that begins in the final week of this month as per ICC.
West Indies legend and current head selector Desmond Haynes suggested strong performances during the CPL will be the deciding factor in the selection process for the T20 World Cup.
“If there is a contest that is managed by the West Indies (and) somebody is performing well I believe his name should be put up for consideration,” Haynes had said recently.
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