"Such conduct cannot be overlooked" - CWI bans Alzarri Joseph for 2 matches after his angry behavior in WI vs ENG 2024 3rd ODI

Cricket West Indies (CWI) have taken stern action against fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, suspending him for two matches. The board's decision came after the Antiguan stormed off the field in anger during the third ODI against England at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.

The incident occurred during the fourth over of the match. Joseph was unhappy with a field placement and could be seen arguing with captain Shai Hope. He dismissed Jordan Cox off the fourth ball of the over but did not celebrate with his teammates. Following the end of the over, he left the field unannounced, forcing the West Indies to begin the fifth over with only 10 fielders.

CWI director Miles Bascombe issued a statement in response to the incicent, as quoted by windiescricket.com:

"Alzarri's behavior did not align with the core values that Cricket West Indies upholds. Such conduct cannot be overlooked, and we have taken decisive action to ensure the gravity of the situation is fully acknowledged."

The 27-year-old will now miss the first two T20Is of the five-match series against England.

"I deeply regret any disappointment caused" - Alzarri Joseph

Alzarri Joseph. (Image Credits: Getty)

The Antiguan has acknowledged that his bahavior was unacceptable and revealed that he apologized to Shai Hope, his teammates and the fans. He said (via windiescricket.com):

"I recognize that my passion got the best of me. I have personally apologized to Captain Shai Hope, my teammates and management. I also extend my sincerest apologies to the West Indies fans—I understand that even a brief lapse in judgment can have a far-reaching impact, and I deeply regret any disappointment caused."

The pacer had snaffled figures of 10-1-45-2, dismissing Cox and Dan Mousley to restrict England to 263 in 50 overs. Later, Brandon King and Keacy Carty struck centuries to seal the series with an eight-wicket win. West Indies' T20I series against England begins on Saturday, November 9.