Holder’s ban gives him opportunity to rest
DAVE CAMERON, the president of Cricket West Indies, has questioned the “crippling decision” to ban Jason Holder for the third Test against England.
Holder, the West Indies captain, was suspended by the International Cricket Council after overseeing a slow over-rate during a series-clinching 10-wicket victory in Antigua – his second such offence in a 12-month period.
He will now miss the chance to fight for what would be a first clean sweep over England since 1986, punished for tardy play in a match that finished inside three days.
CWI has chosen not to contest the decision, but Cameron has made it clear the organisation disagrees with the sanction and would back a revision of the overrate guidelines.
“We will, of course, abide by the ICC ruling, but we have to wonder if such punitive action at a pivotal stage of the series is good for cricket,” said Cameron.
“What a shame if the series is remembered not for the sparkling play of the reinvigorated West Indies players, but for a crippling decision made by a rule that ought to be modified.
“Jason now has the opportunity to benefit from resting his body over the period of the next Test and be well prepared for the upcoming ODI series against England, which begins on February 20.”
Holder, 27, is the top run-scorer in the series following his unbeaten double century in Bridgetown and has also taken seven wickets.
While Kraigg Brathwaite will take over the captaincy in St Lucia, Holder will travel with the squad and be on hand to offer advice and motivation throughout the match. Uncapped seamer Oshane Thomas could debut in Holder’s place, but fellow paceman Keemo Paul has also been added to the squad.