WICB Media Release
ST.GEORGE’S, Grenada (WICB) — Grenada’s Prime Minister Dr.Keith Mitchell has congratulated Windward Islands opening batsman Devon Smith on his return to the West Indies team for the tour of South Africa.
Smith, who last played test cricket three years ago, was called-up as a replacement for veteran opener Chris Gayle who has been forced out of the side due to injury.
The Grenadian batsman has been in superb form already this season, amassing 334 runs at an average of 55 including a score of 145 to lead Windwards to victory over Leeward Islands in the third round of the WICB Professional Cricket League over the weekend.
“Devon’s talent is unquestionable, and his development is evident, as was most recently demonstrated in the Professional cricket League; therefore, he deserves to be included on the West Indies team,” declared Prime Minister Mitchell.
“We are very happy for, and proud of him, as he continues to grow in the game. We look forward to the South Africa tour with increased excitement to see our boy in action.”
Smith, 33, will fly out to this week to join the West Indies squad which left the Caribbean on Sunday for London enroute to Johannesburg.
Smith will be joined by left-arm seamer Sheldon Cottrell who leaves the region on Friday for South Africa.
Prime Minister Mitchell has also conveyed best wishes and a speedy recovery to Gayle who has struggled with injury in recent years and missed the recent ill-fated one-day tour of India as a result.
West Indies open their tour with a three-day practice game in Benoni starting December 10th.