"I have made peace with that decision" - Sunil Narine shuts door on international comeback ahead of T20 World Cup 2024
West Indian and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Sunil Narine has shut the door on a comeback to international cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. The veteran cricketer took to his official Instagram handle and issued a fairly lengthy message, stating that he will continue to support the players who will be selected to represent West Indies in the event.
Narine, who retired from international cricket in late 2023, has been in outstanding form with both ball and bat. The Trinidadian has smashed 286 runs in seven IPL 2024 matches, headlined by his maiden century against the Rajasthan Royals. The 35-year-old's off-spin has yielded nine scalps at 22.11.
Taking to Instagram, Narine wrote:
"I hope this message finds you all well and in good health. I'm truly flattered and humbled that my performances recently have moved many people to publicly express their wish for me to come out of retirement and play in the upcoming T20 World Cup."
"I have made peace with that decision and whilst I never wish to disappointment, the door is now closed and I will be supporting the guys who take the field in June for the West Indies. Guys who have worked over the past few months and deserve to show our wonderful fans that they are capable of winning another title. I wish you all the best."
The spin-bowling all-rounder last donned the national colours in 2019 against India. He featured in six Tests, 65 ODIs, and 51 T20Is. West Indies T20 skipper Rovman Powell had also expressed his desire to have the veteran's services for the World Cup.
Sunil Narine was part of West Indies' squads in 2012 and 2014 T20 World Cups:
Narine was part of West Indies' squads during the 2012 and 2014 T20 World Cup. He picked up nine scalps in seven games during the 2012 edition when the Men in Maroon lifted their maiden title. The off-spinner finished with six scalps in five matches in the tournament two years later.
West Indies are clubbed with New Zealand, Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda in Group C in the upcoming T20 World Cup, beginning on June 1.