SYDNEY, Australia (CMC):
West Indies star Carlos Brathwaite has reiterated his commitment to playing international cricket, despite the demand for his services in Twenty20 leagues across the globe.
The 28-year-old has been an instant hit with Sydney Thunder in the ongoing Australia Big Bash and already the franchise are weighing up the possibility of securing his services for next season.
However, West Indies are scheduled to tour New Zealand from November 2017 to January 2018 for three Tests, five One-Day Internationals and one T20I – a series that will clash with the early stages of the Big Bash, which bowls off a week before Christmas.
And Brathwaite, who is trying to forge an international career in all three formats, said he was focused on making the Windies squad for the full series.
PRIORITY
“My priority is always the West Indies. I want to be part of all three formats, and I want to be on that New Zealand tour next,” the all-rounder said here this week.
“If I’m not in New Zealand, and an opportunity presents itself here – I’m not in New Zealand for whatever reason, and I’m available – I’d love to come back to Sydney and the BBL.”
Brathwaite’s commitment to West Indies was already evident in his decision to return to the Caribbean following the Thunder’s final preliminary game on Wednesday, to represent his native Barbados Pride in the Regional Super50.
The tournament, the Caribbean’s premier 50-overs competition, is a requirement for West Indies players in order to be eligible for selection in the ODI format.
STAT SPOT
Brathwaite’s batting bundle
Tests – 3
Runs – 181
High Score – 61
ODIs – 20
Runs – 228
High Score – 33*
T20 – 13
Runs – 99
High Score – 34*