Sunil Narine smashed his maiden T20 century for KKR vs RR in Kolkata on Tuesday. (Sportzpics)
Sunil Narine has made it clear that he is not coming out of the international retirement to pay for West Indies in the forthcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and USA.
“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,” Narine said in a statement.
“I have made peace with that decision and whilst I never wish to disappoint, that door is now closed and I will be supporting the guys who take the field in June for West Indies.
“Guys who have worked hard for 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.”
Impeccable form
The 35-year-old all-rounder is having a great time with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). While promoted back as an opener, the southpaw has amassed 286 runs including a magnificent 109 not out from 56 balls against Rajasthan Royals last week, his maiden T20 century.
With the ball he is KKR”s joint-leading wicket-taker, taking nine wickets at an economy rate of 7.10.
Narine retired from international cricket in November 2023, having not played for West Indies since 2019.
However, West Indies skipper Rovman Powell, who is playing for Rajasthan Royals he has been trying to coax Narine to come out of retirement for close to 12 months.
“I’ve asked Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Nicholas Pooran. Hopefully, before they select the team, they can crack his code,” Powell said.
Narine has played 51 T20Is for West Indies, taking 53 wickets at an outstanding economy rate of 6.01.
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