"Don’t think money is the issue" - Andre Russell reveals actual reason behind West Indies players not preferring Test cricket
Published - 03 Aug 2024, 04:38 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:16 AM
Star all-rounder Andre Russell recently revealed the reason behind West Indies players moving away from Test cricket to numerous T20 leagues around the world. Andre Russell highlighted that a lot of players are just not interested in playing in red-ball cricket, adding that it is not due to financial reasons.
Former West Indies skipper Jason Holder opted to skip the Australia series to play in the International League T20 (ILT20) in the UAE in January this year. There were claims that financial issues are the reason behind the disinterest in Test cricket, but Russell stated that this is not the main reason for choosing T20 leagues.
Rovman Powell, Nicholas Pooran, and Kieron Pollard have not been regular fixtures in Test cricket for the West Indies despite their success in white-ball cricket. Russell has played just one Test for the West Indies back in 2010. Russell scored just two runs and picked up one wicket in his only Test appearance.
A Lot Of Players Are Just Not Interested - Andre Russell
Speaking to Britain's PA News Agency, Andre Russell said that incentives are not the main reason for the shift away from Test cricket. Russell added that young players will still be eager to compete on prestigious stages like the World Test Championship.
"I don’t think it’s the money, I don’t think money is the issue. Based on the amount of T20 and leagues around the world, I think a lot of players are just not interested in playing Tests. As long as you can do well from contracts outside your nation I think they are going to grab that opportunity but everyone wants to play on the big stage,” he told Britain’s PA news agency.
"So, if the big stage comes in Test cricket, I know youngsters will be happy to play. I just don’t think it’s about money or anything like that," he added.
The 36-year-old all-rounder has played just 17 first-class matches since his debut in 2007. The right-handed batter hasn't played a first-class match since 2014 and is unlikely to return to the format. Russell is expected to remain a key player for the West Indies in the shorter international format of the game.
Red-Ball Cricket Is Not My Cookie - Andre Russell
Andre Russell said that Test cricket is not suited to his playing style or physical condition. Russell sympathized with the West Indies team, who were defeated by England. He noted that the West Indies had opportunities but added that playing in England is challenging.
“Red-ball cricket is not my cookie, I don’t think my body will keep up with Test cricket. But those in the team at the moment are fit enough and taking on the challenge,” Russell explained.
“They had a few moments in the Test series where they could have turned things around. Playing England at home is always going to be hard for the West Indies,” he concluded.
