ST GEORGE’S – Persistent rain here yesterday ruined West Indies’ hopes of building on their momentum, as it forced the abandonment of the third
against England without a ball bowled.
The adverse weather kept players off the field and ground-staff and match officials occupied, before the match was eventually called off at 2:40 pm, with rain still hovering at the
Early morning showers had put a prompt start in doubt and then delayed the toss by 40 minutes.
Even when England called correctly and asked West Indies to bat, the 10:35 a.m start time was then revised after rain returned.
Umpires then identified a second scheduled start time of 11:45 a.m, which would have seen the contest reduced to 42 overs per side, but the weather yet again intervened.
The series is tied 1-1 after England won the first ODI by six wickets last Wednesday and West Indies rebounded with a 26-run victory on Friday in the doubleheader at
last week.
Meanwhile, the Windies selectors have called up all-rounder Andre Russell for the final two ODIs here tomorrow and Saturday in St Lucia.
The 30-year-old has been campaigning for Multan Sultans in the ongoing
Super League.
Russell, a powerful lower order batsman and effective fast bowler, replaces experienced seamer Kemar Roach, who suffered a lower back injury prior to the opening match and was ruled out of the five-match series. “We believe Russell will add value to the
“We are well aware that although Andre’s bowling may be limited due to a knee problem, his tremendous batting ability to power the ball in the back end of the game will be an asset to the team,” chief selector Courtney Browne said.
Russell’s career has been plagued by a dodgy knee, and the Jamaican has preferred to focus on the shortest format in recent times.
(CMC/EZS)
CALLED UP: All-rounder Andre Russell has been selected for the Windies’ last two ODIs against England. (FP)
