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The country vs club debate is still a burning topic, especially after Trent Boult opted out of New Zealand's central contract. While the issue is still for New Zealand, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has been struggling with players opting for franchise cricket for a long time. West Indies coach Phil Simmons is disappointed with the absence of star players but he has accepted that there is nothing much he can do about it.
West Indies were outclassed at home by India as Nicholas Pooran-led side missed the services of all-rounders Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. The T20 stalwarts have been playing franchise cricket. On the other hand, Evin Lewis and Oshane Thomas opted not to appear for fitness tests. The Caribbean side looked even weaker in the absence of injured Sheldon Cottrell, Fabian Allen and Roston Chase.
"I don't think that I should be begging people to play for the West Indies," Simmons told ESPNCricinfo.
Russell has not donned the maroon jersey since T20 World Cup 2021 whereas Narine has not been considered by the board since 2019.
"It hurts. There's no other way to put it. But what can you do? I don't think that I should be begging people to play for their countries. I think if you want to represent West Indies, you will make yourself available," he added.
While ODI cricket has taken a hit, T20 cricket has thrived as the most-watched format. With the introduction of new leagues in South Africa and United Arab Emirates in near future, more players are expected to choose franchise cricket.
"Life has changed, in that people have the opportunities to go different places and if they choose that over West Indies, that's just how it is," the 59-year-old further added.
West Indies were far from impressive against the Rohit Sharma-led side. The only T20I they won was when Obed McCoy took six wickets for 17 runs. Even then, their batters struggled to chase a below par total. With T20 World Cup 2022 scheduled to be played in Australia, it will be interesting to see which players make a comeback into the team.
