MELBOURNE, Australia, CMC – Cricket Australia officials are breathing a huge sigh of relief, following the selection of a full-strength West Indies side for the series against the national team.
CA officials were sitting on the edge of their seats waiting for the announcement of the visiting side.

West Indies had fielded depleted sides for the recent home series against Bangladesh and the ICC Champions Trophy in South Africa, following a contracts dispute with the leading players.

But through the efforts of CARICOM and other stakeholders, the West Indies Cricket Board and the West Indies Players’ Association have reached an agreement that would allow for the best available players to travel.

“We’ve seen in recent times where a West Indies side has struggled against Bangladesh and others, and it’s a great relief to know they’re going to be full strength,” said CA cChief Executive James Sutherland.

“I’m sure they’ll put up a really good performance this summer. I think they’ll have a renewed spirit after coming back and having had a bit of time out of the game, it’s a summer of cricket that we’re really looking forward to.”

West Indies are set to face the Aussies in three Tests, starting later this month.

“What we can look forward to now is a fantastic atmosphere at matches,” Sutherland said.

“Those three Test matches against the West Indies – in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth – are always, no matter who’s playing, great traditional events and people come from all over the state and even all over the country to attend those matches.”

He added: “So no matter who’s playing there’s a great element of tradition about these games, so we expect good crowds.

“But the fact now that the West Indies are full strength means that if there was any doubt, I think that’s all removed now.”