Charles replaces suspended Thomas; Sinclair called up

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC):

JOHNSON CHARLES has been called up to replace Devon Thomas in the West Indies squad for a three-match One-Day International series against United Arab Emirates starting next month.

Thomas, a 33-year-old right-hander, was on Tuesday ruled out of the tour after being suspended following charges brought by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit under the Anti-Corruption codes.

Charles, an explosive 34-year-old opener, has made a resurgence in his T20 career after a long spell in the wilderness, but has not featured in an ODI in seven years.

The right-hander is one of two changes to the 15-man squad with off-spinner Kevin Sinclair drafted in to replace left-arm spinner and fellow Guyanese Gudakesh Motie, who has sustained a lower-back injury.

Both Motie and Sinclair are on tour with West Indies A in Bangladesh for the three four-day ‘Tests’ which wrap up on June 2.

Motie will still travel to the UAE ahead of the ODI series, but only to receive treatment from the West Indies medical staff, with the hope of being ready for the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe bowling off on June 18.

“We were forced to make some changes to the squads, and this has presented opportunities for players to come in,” said chief selector, Desmond Haynes.

“Sinclair has been in good form all year and has taken that to the ‘A Team’ series in Bangladesh.

“Permaul and Charles are experienced players, and they will be able to quickly adapt to the conditions and fit into the environment in Sylhet and Sharjah.”

Haynes added, “Motie is a key part of our plans for the ICC Cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe, so we are hopeful he will make a full recovery for that tournament.

“The decision was taken to have him remain with the squad in Sharjah so he will be closely monitored and receive the best treatment available.”

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul will travel to Bangladesh as Motie’s replacement in the West Indies A side, currently involved in the second of the three four-day ‘Tests’ in Sylhet.

The third ‘Test’ bowls off on May 30, while West Indies face UAE from June 4-9.

WEST INDIES SQUAD

Shai Hope (captain), Brandon King (vice captain), Alick Athanaze, Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Dominic Drakes, Kavem Hodge, Akeem Jordan, Keemo Paul, Raymon Reifer, Kevin Sinclair, Odean Smith