Alzarri Joseph gets once-in-a-lifetime punishment from Cricket West Indies

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has taken strict action against fast bowler Alzarri Joseph after his public spat with captain Shai Hope during the third ODI match against England. Cricket West Indies has banned Alzarri Joseph for two matches in the upcoming five-match T20I series against England at home.

Joseph had a heated argument with Shai Hope and walked off the field in anger. The right-arm pacer was unhappy with the field set by Hope at the start of the fourth over. He didn't celebrate with his team after dismissing Jordan Cox. The home team had to field with only 10 players during the fifth over.

The 27-year-old returned to the field at the start of the sixth over. However, he wasn't given the ball in the power play despite his impressive first spell. Joseph came to bowl the 12th over in England's innings. He completed his 10-over quota with 2 wickets for 45 runs as England scored 263-8 in 50 overs.

We Have Taken Decisive Action - Cricket West Indies

On Thursday, Cricket West Indies issued an official statement on Alzarri Joseph's behavior on the field during the recent match. Cricket West Indies banned Joseph for two matches after a review with the coaching staff, as his conduct fell short of CWI's “standards of professionalism.”

"Alzarri’s behavior did not align with the core values that Cricket West Indies upholds. Such conduct cannot be overlooked, and we have taken decisive action to ensure the gravity of the situation is fully acknowledged," said CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe.

I Have Personally Apologized To Captain Shai Hope - Alzarri Joseph

Alzarri Joseph also issued a public apology and expressed deep regret for the disappointment he had caused. Joseph apologized to Shai Hope, his teammates, and management. He was previously vice-captain for the West Indies but did not hold that official position for England’s tour.

“I recognize that my passion got the best of me,” Joseph was quoted as saying in the CWI statement.

"I have personally apologized to captain Shai Hope and my teammates and management. I also extend my sincerest apologies to the West Indies fans — understand that even a brief lapse in judgment can have a far-reaching impact, and I deeply regret any disappointment caused.”

First T20I Between West Indies and England To Commence on Saturday

The West Indies chased England's 264-run target in just 43 overs, with centuries from Brandon King (102 off 117 balls) and Keacy Carty (128* off 114 balls).

Right-arm pacer Matthew Forde was named Player of the Series after taking eight wickets at an average of 16.37. Alzarri Joseph claimed four wickets in two matches with an average of 22.75.

Following the ODI series, the two teams are set to meet in a five-match T20 series, starting on November 9, Saturday, at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.

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