We and CWI must respect Narine’s decision

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Thankfully, he said nothing more than a humble no. Because, he has his reasons that would stir up a lot of hot issues that are best left buried for good. Some wanted him out. Now he’s gone, some want him to come back. Sunil Narine has recognised that he is not bigger than the game, and certainly not Cricket West Indies (CWI). He has made his contribution and opened spaces for talent to break into maroon colours. He has found a niche for himself and secured legendary status and a steady source of income for another decade or so with the Knight Riders group. Plus, he is more of a cult hero in India than in the Caribbean, and owes it to his franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for helping him overcome his bowling action problems, same for Russell during his doping ban.

Take, for example, Arsenal’s hybrid right back Benjamin White who recently rejected an England call-up, opting to prioritise Arsenal’s title-winning fixtures. England already got Walker, Trippier and Alexander Arnold competing for the same position. Rumour has it that Southgate’s backroom staff don’t fancy him. So, do we expect him to bench, train, and go for the ride? No, the same with Narine. I’ve said it before, his influence is just getting started, as seen by his form this Indian Premier League season. He has found new ways of being the sharpest tool in the T20 box, extending the longevity of his career. Wherever he goes, he will continue to fly the ‘Trinidbagonian’ flag high and serve the West Indies beyond the boundary. It’s time to move on, and we all must accept his decision.

KENDELL KARAN

Chaguanas

Trinidad and Tobago