Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Alzarri Joseph Declines Test Series, Sparks Selection Debate
Alzarri Joseph is a fast bowler for the West Indies.
He said he would not play in the two-Test series against Pakistan because his back was still healing from a long injury.
The West Indies coach, Daren Sammy, said Joseph was chosen but had turned down the chance.
Joseph said he talked with the coach and the cricket board about his workload and decided to skip the Tests to protect his body.
Even though the comments caused a bit of a stir, Joseph said he will keep working hard for the West Indies.
Alzarri Joseph declined to play in the two-match Test series against Pakistan, citing his body was not ready after a year-long injury layoff.
Coach Daren Sammy publicly stated Joseph was selected but had declined, a claim Joseph disputes.
Cricket West Indies released a squad list on July 23, labeling Joseph unavailable for "personal reasons".
Joseph clarified he had discussed workload with the coach and CWI, and chose to avoid a Test series to protect his back.
Despite the controversy, Joseph said he remains professional and will continue to represent the West Indies.
- Who
- Alzarri Joseph and Daren Sammy
- What
- Dispute over Joseph's selection and absence from the Test series
- When
- July 23 squad announcement and ongoing Test series
- Where
- West Indies vs Pakistan Test series
- Why
- Joseph's body not ready after injury; Sammy claimed Joseph declined
- Player
- Alzarri Joseph
- Coach
- Daren Sammy
- Team
- West Indies
- Series
- Test series against Pakistan
- Reason for absence
- Body not ready after injury
- Selection status
- Selected but declined