West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has responded to comments made by head coach Daren Sammy after the coach said the pacer had declined selection for the ongoing two-Test series against Pakistan. Joseph believes Sammy's remarks created the wrong impression and says they lacked proper context.
Joseph, who featured in both Test matches against Sri Lanka during the home series in June and July 2026, explained that his decision was linked to his fitness and recovery from injury rather than refusing to play.
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When Cricket West Indies announced the squad for the Pakistan Test series on July 23, the board said Joseph was unavailable because of personal reasons. However, a day later, Sammy told reporters that the fast bowler had turned down the opportunity to play.
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Joseph said his recent injury history played a major role in his decision. After suffering a second stress fracture in his lower back last year, he wanted to be careful with his workload before returning to the longest format.
WI vs PAK Test series
Meanwhile, West Indies are leading the two-match series after beating Pakistan by 90 runs in the opening Test. The second and final Test will be played in Port of Spain from August 2 to 7.
Pakistan have also suffered an injury setback ahead of the match, with former captain Shan Masood ruled out after fracturing his thumb.