West Indian and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Sunil Narine has ruled out the possibility of returning to international cricket before the T20 World Cup 2024.
The seasoned cricketer posted a lengthy message on his official Instagram account, expressing his decision to continue supporting the players chosen to represent West Indies in the tournament.
Narine, who retired from international cricket in late 2023, has been in exceptional form with both bat and ball. The Trinidadian has scored 286 runs in seven IPL 2024 matches, highlighted by his first-ever century against the Rajasthan Royals.
Additionally, the 35-year-old’s off-spin has garnered nine wickets at an average of 22.11. In a post on Instagram, Narine wrote:
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6EwSYHinUg/?igsh=NW14d3VybTM0YmRs
“I hope this message finds you all well and in good health. I’m truly flattered and humbled that my performances recently have moved many people to publicly express their wish for me to come out of retirement and play in the upcoming T20 World Cup.”
“I have made peace with that decision and whilst I never wish to disappointment, the door is now closed and I will be supporting the guys who take the field in June for the West Indies.”
”Guys who have worked over the past few months and deserve to show our wonderful fans that they are capable of winning another title. I wish you all the best.”
The spin-bowling all-rounder’s last appearance for the national team was in 2019 against India. He played in six Tests, 65 ODIs, and 51 T20Is. West Indies T20 captain Rovman Powell had also indicated his interest in having the veteran player for the World Cup.
Sunil Narine was included in West Indies’ teams for the 2012 and 2014 T20 World Cups
Narine was a member of West Indies’ teams for the 2012 and 2014 T20 World Cups. He claimed nine wickets in seven matches during the 2012 edition when the team won its first title. In the following tournament two years later, the off-spinner took six wickets in five matches.
In the upcoming T20 World Cup, starting on June 1, West Indies are placed in Group C alongside New Zealand, Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda.
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