West Indies recall experienced Russell for England matches

Andre Russell

 (Reuters) – West Indies have called up all-rounder Andre Russell for the fourth and fifth one-day internationals against England, while pace bowler Kemar Roach has been withdrawn due to a back injury, Cricket West Indies said today.

Russell, 30, whose last one-day game was in July last year, could feature in the matches at Grenada on Feb. 27 and St Lucia on March 2 as a specialist batsman despite a knee problem.

“Roach had to be withdrawn from the ODI series due to injury and will be replaced by the experienced Russell for the last two matches. We believe Russell will add value to the squad,” chairman of selectors Courtney Browne said in a statement.

Andre Russell

“Although Andre’s bowling may be limited due to a knee problem, his tremendous batting ability to power the ball in the back end of the game will be an asset to the team.”

West Indies, who levelled the five-match series at 1-1 with a win on Friday, play England in the third game on Monday in what will be the 99th one-day contest between the teams.