St John’s, Antigua: Enigmatic opener Kieran Powell has once again made himself available for the West Indies duty and hopes he can force his way back into the Caribbean side.
The 26-year-old returned from a mysterious self-imposed break from the regional game last month, playing two games for Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the just concluded Regional first class championship, reports CMC.
He last played for the West Indies in June, 2014, before suddenly going into exile and has taken no part in regional or international cricket since.
During his time away, Powell flirted with baseball, undergoing a couple of trials for Major League Baseball franchises.
And while noting he had not completely given up on baseball, he stressed cricket would be his immediate focus.
“Obviously cricket has always been my first love. It’s something that comes naturally to me and I’m really good at it,” said Powell.
“That’s why I’m back playing first-class cricket. I’m fully ready whenever they [West Indies] need me.
“[West Indies head coach] Phil Simmons wanted me to play the games to make myself eligible for selection. I’ve fulfilled my end of the bargain.”
Prior to disappearing from the spotlight, Powell was viewed as one of the brightest batting prospects in the Caribbean.
The left-hand batsman began his Test career against India in July, 2011, and his last played Test was against New Zealand in June, 2014.
He has so far scored 1072 runs in 21 Tests with three centuries and a highest score of 134 runs. In 28 One-Days he has amassed 772 runs with a highest score of 83.
