The disappointment of missing out on the 2023 World Cup seems to have cast a shadow over West Indies cricket. As they gear up for the 2027 edition, a new-look side has been unveiled. However, the conspicuous absence of Darren Bravo from the 15-member squad has raised eyebrows. The left-handed batsman, once a prominent figure, now finds himself sidelined, having not played an international game since 2022.
Darren Bravo is not alone in his omission. Other notable names like Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder have also been overlooked for the series. Instead, the selectors have opted for fresh faces, including Matthew Forde and Kjorn Ottley, adding an air of uncertainty to the West Indies lineup.
Dwayne Bravo wasted no time expressing his frustration on Instagram. He condemned the treatment, meted out to his brother, and openly criticized chief selector Desmond Haynes. In a passionate post, he questioned the criteria for West Indies team selection, emphasizing that it can’t solely be based on performance.
Taking to Instagram, Dwayne Bravo wrote: “SMH!!! When will the BS stop?! I’m not surprised by my brother’s non-selection, but with the recent changes in WI cricket management, I held onto a bit of hope for the better. This is NOT acceptable, and I just can’t make sense of it! So here are my burning questions: What are the criteria for West Indies team selection? Surely, it can’t be solely based on performance?”
“For two seasons, my brother showcased exceptional talent, becoming the leading run-scorer in the latest tournament with over 400 runs, a batting average of 83.2, and an SR of 92. I usually stay away from these discussions, but the mistreatment, disrespect, and dishonesty towards players over the years demand a voice. When will it stop? When will this BS actually stop?” he added.
The post raised burning questions about the transparency and fairness of the selection process. Dwayne Bravo highlighted his brother’s exceptional performance over two seasons, boasting over 400 runs, a batting average of 83.2, and a strike rate of 92. The all-rounder, known for staying away from controversies, couldn’t remain silent any longer, expressing his dismay at the mistreatment, disrespect, and dishonesty towards players.
Dwayne Bravo did not spare chief selector Desmond Haynes in his post. He accused Haynes of sounding like “another former player singing for his supper.” The frustration extended to a loss of trust in the cricketing system, with figures like Haynes, Sammy, and the new director of cricket failing to bring the much-needed change.
‘I Am Never Going To Be As Good As Him’, Virat Kohli Outstanding Statement After Equalling Sachin’s 49th Hundred Record
He further wrote about Haynes, writing: “To Mr. Desmond Haynes, your statement didn’t surprise me. It feels like another former player singing for his supper. I hoped for trust in the system with figures like you, Sammy, and the new director of cricket, but the system failed again.”
Amidst the turmoil, Dwayne Bravo offered words of encouragement to his brother, assuring him that this challenging phase would pass. He urged Darren Bravo to keep his head up, stay focused, and trust in a higher power. Additionally, he extended best wishes to the selected players, expressing optimism about the inclusion of Ottley, Rutherford, and Dowrich.
“To my brother, this too shall pass. Keep your head up, stay focused, and trust in the Almighty. And, as always, I extend my best wishes to the team and selected players. It’s refreshing to see Ottley, Rutherford, and Dowrich back in the mix. Good Luck, guys!” he added.
West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Alzarri Joseph (vc), Alick Athanaze, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Kjorn Ottley, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas.
