Andre Russell appealed to Sunil Narine to come out of retirement and join the West Indies team for the 2024 T20 World Cup and believes Narine is the missing piece needed for their success.
Sunil Narine has solidified his position in the KKR team, excelling both as a top-order batsman and a key bowler. The West Indian has had a remarkable season, amassing 482 runs and providing KKR with strong starts alongside Phil Salt.
His batting has now led teammate Andre Russell to wonder if Narine will be a part of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Narine’s all-around skills were evident in the tournament; he has not only been a powerful hitter but also a wily bowler, taking 16 wickets at an economy rate of 6.90. When speaking on Star Sports Cricket Live, Russell praised Narine’s versatility, emphasizing his significant contribution with both bat and ball.
“I’m so happy for Sunil to be honest. I think getting close to 500 runs is no joke, being a premier bowler that is going to look to bowl four overs and has 16 wickets under his belt in this season as well, that just goes to show the true all-roundership in him,” Russell said.
However, there’s concern for the West Indies regarding Sunil Narine’s retirement from international cricket, which could impact their chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Narine, who last played a T20I in 2019, had firmly stated that he has no intention of returning for the World Cup.
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Despite this, Russell is hopeful that Narine might reconsider, underlining the team’s need for his skills. While Russell respects Narine’s decision, he believes the entire West Indies team would be thrilled if Narine changed his mind.
“Yeah, I definitely think so, I was trying to get in his head before the squad announced for like two weeks straight. (Sherfane) Rutherford and I tried to talk to him and say just for this World Cup, then you can retire and do whatever you want to do. Though he’s the missing puzzle, I think he made his decision and I respect his decision as well, as a big man and as a player that does well. I think if he could change that decision the whole West Indies would be happy,” Russell added.
Last Updated on May 23, 2024
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