‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle, Marlon Samuels return to the ODI squad for West Indies

Having marked his dominance in the shortest format of the game, Chris Gayle has set all records on his name to become the most entertaining cricketer across the globe. The world has seen umpteen gigantic sixes from Gayle’s bat, the sixes that nearly landed on another planet. However, one of the most loved batsmen of the modern era saw himself away from the West Indies’ ODI jersey for nearly two long years. Gayle played his last one-day international in the 2015 World Cup and was sidelined from the squad following an issue with the cricket board. The irreconcilable dispute between the West Indies’ cricket board and few International cricketers nearly dashed their hopes to return to the national team. However, some good news is in store for his fans after his inclusion in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against England and Ireland. West Indies’ double T20 World Cup winning champion Marlon Samuels also makes his comeback in the national team. The welcome entry of Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels is expected to give a new life to the dying West Indies Cricket.

Addressing the welcome of both these players, Courtney Brown said.”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.” Responding to the absence of players like Sunil Narine and Bravo, Brown added,”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 Super 50 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 duo returns to the national team after the WICB implemented certain amendments in eligibility criteria for selection.Prior to these changes, to play a format, players had to be available in domestic tournament corresponding the same. However, there was a change in policy in July this year which has opened the doors for players like Gayle and Marlon Samuels. West Indies are scheduled to play the only ODI against Ireland and five ODIs against England after the end of the ongoing test series in England.

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