Picture Credit: Twitter
Former West Indies captain, Dwayne Bravo took to social media to lash out at the selectors after snubbing his brother, Darren Bravo despite consistent performances. Earlier, Cricket West Indies announced their squad for the ODI series against England, set to be played next month in December 2023.
While Shai Hope will lead the home side, Alzarri Joseph has been named his deputy for the three-match ODI series with Justin Greaves, Nicholas Pooran, and Jason Holder, all unavailable for selection. But a prominent name, which has been speaking with his consistent performances was dropped and his brother was quick to lash out at Windies selectors.
“When will the BS [sic] stop?! I'm not surprised by my brother's non-selection, but with the recent changes in WI cricket management, I held onto a bit of hope for the better," Dwayne posted on Instagram. "This is NOT acceptable, and I just can't make sense of it! So here are my burning questions: What's the criteria for West Indies team selection? Surely, it can't be solely based on performance?”, Bravo said in his long and elaborated message.
However, following the squad announcement, West Indies’ chief selector, Desmond Haynes further reiterated that Darren omitted to give opportunities to younger players seeing the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind. “It was a very tough decision for us to make as a panel. Darren has proven, not only this year but last year as well in the Super50 tournament, to be somebody who has performed well at this level. But we have invested in players like Alick Athanaze and Keacy Carty,” Haynes added.
But, despite Haynes' statement, former Windies international, DJ Bravo accused the selection panel of “mistreatment” and “disrespect” towards the players adding that the decision to exclude Darren did not surprise him. “I usually stay away from these discussions, but the mistreatment, disrespect, and dishonesty towards players over the years demand a voice”, he wrote.
“To Mr. Desmond Haynes, your statement didn’t surprise me. It feels like another former player singing for his supper. I hoped for trust in the system with figures like you, Sammy, and the new director of cricket, but the system failed again. To my brother, this too shall pass. Keep your head up, stay focused, and trust in the Almighty,” he further added.
The Caribbeans will host the Three Lions in a three-match ODI series from 3 to 9 December, followed by a five-match T20I series.
West Indies squad for England series:
Shai Hope (C), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Alick Athanaze, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Kjorn Ottley, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas.
