Cricket West Indies, CWI, has handed right-arm seamer Alzarri Joseph a two-match ban following an on-field altercation with ODI captain Shai Hope during the final ODI of the three-match series against England at Kensington Oval.
The West Indies also completed a comprehensive eight-wicket win against England in the third ODI on the back of exceptional performances from Brandon King and Keacy Carty. But Joseph took all the headlines away for different reasons. As he was in the thick of things with Hope on the field.
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, significantly condemned Joseph’s action as something that did not align with the core values upheld by the organization. “Alzarri’s actions cannot be ignored. And we have taken strong measures to deal with the issue,” said Bascombe in a statement. “It is unacceptable behavior, and we are to make sure players understand the gravity of the issue.”
Additionally, Joseph publicly apologized after the announcement of the suspension. “I had a regret for my action. My passion got the better of me, and it got out of hand,” Joseph said. “Personally, I have spoken to Captain Shai Hope, the team, and the management, inclusive. In addition, I would like to offer my sincerest apologies to West Indies fans, who continue to support the team through situations such as this,” he continued. “I realize that even one moment of weakness can carry widespread implications. For which I am truly sorry, as it would have caused disappointment.”
It was a dominant show from the West Indies on the field. Asked to bat first, after West Indies captain CWJ Coles called the coin-toss right. The England opener Phil Salt scored 74 off 108 balls, laced with 4 fours and 1 six. But for the rest of the batting order for England, it was a pretty dismal show. As they were restricted to 263/8 in their allotted overs. Matthew Forde was the pick of the bowlers for West Indies, with 3/35.
In reply, the West Indies also breached the target without much sweat. Brandon King played a brilliant 102 off 117 balls, and Keacy Carty remained not out on 128 off 114 balls. Their partnership saw the Windies win comfortably by eight wickets as none of the bowlers among the English. Even Reece Topley and Jamie Overton were able to defend the total for West Indies to win the match.
ANI