Lendl Simmons called up to replace Dwayne Bravo

Lendl Simmons

Lendl Simmons has been named in the West Indies squad for the fifth match of the Celkon tri-series against Sri Lanka at the Queens Park Oval. The WICB selection panel called up Simmons to replace Dwayne Bravo, who will miss the crunch game after being slapped with a one-match suspension for a second minor over-rate transgression within 12 months.

The all-rounder’s call up suggests that he will be a direct replacement for Dwayne Bravo in the playing XI to face the confident Sri Lankans on Sunday. In all likelihood, Devon Smith will be left out again. Simmons, whose career has been a start-stop affair, has been granted another opportunity to prove his mettle and claim a regular place in the team. The local lad, who can also deputize as a wicket-keeper, averages 30.31 with the bat in 42 ODIs, with his lone century coming against Bangladesh two years ago. Kieron Pollard is expected lead the West Indies team for the second time in three matches.

Meanwhile, Sunil Narine, who had hurt his finger during the previous encounter, has regained full-fitness. A win on Sunday would see West Indies seal their spot in the final. A loss would still give them a chance of qualifying, but would result in a three-way net run-rate scenario if the sides are tied on nine points.