KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC-West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell says he has delayed his departure for India to help strengthen Jamaica’s bid to defend their title in the regional Super 50 competition.
Russell, who was originally scheduled to leave the island today, has pushed back travel plans to play for Jamaica against the visiting Leeward islands.
The two sides clash at Sabina Park in the ODI today and will also meet in the four-day tournament, starting on Saturday.
“I made the coach and selectors aware of my availability. I want to play the game against Leewards and then leave for India,”said the 24 year old Russell who has been contracted to represent the Dehli Daredevils in next month’s start of the Indian Premier League (IPL)
“My ticket was booked for the 21st, but I made changes to try to play for Jamaica and try to help them into a more comfortable position in the Super50 tournament”.
The champions are seeking their fourth 50-over win in as many outings.
The Leewards team, which arrived in the island on Monday, is at the foot of the table without a point after losing all three Super50 matches so far.
Russell and left-arm swing bowler Krishmar Santokie were called up in Jamaica’s 13-man squad to face the Leeward Islands in the Regional Super50 clash.
The 28-year-old Santokie, who is available after a recent stint in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Twenty20 competition, is one of the top bowlers in regional limited—overs cricket.
Jamaica squad — Tamar Lambert (capt), Nkrumah Bonner, Danza Hyatt, Andre
McCarthy, Jermaine Blackwood, Andre Russell, David Bernard, Carlton
Baugh, Nikita Miller, Odean Brown, Krishmar Santokie, Simon Jackson, Andrew Richardson
