West Indian batsman Kieran Powell eyeing return to international stage

The last time anyone heard the name Kieran Powell a couple of years ago in 2014, the last time he wore the maroon of the West Indies. Powell drifted into the monopolized world of baseball, a place where his cricketing prowess helped immensely. However, after a brief stint in the major leagues and a sinister failure with the baseball willow, Powell once again made the transition back into the fold of the West Indies Cricket Board.

Having made his comeback, the batsman has now declared himself available for selection to the West Indies side. The controversy-riddled WICB may well take up Kieran Powell on his offer, and we may well see the return of one of the West Indies stars of yesteryear.

And while noting he has 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 the highest score of 134 runs. In 28 One-Days he has amassed 772 runs with the highest score of 83.

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