Windward Islands Volcanoes release Justin Greaves

Barbadian all-rounder Justin Greaves has been released from the Windward Islands Volcanoes franchise ahead of the regional Professional Cricketers draft.

Miles Bascombe, technical director of the Windward Islands cricket board, confirmed the news on Thursday, but offered little comment on the reason for Greaves’ release.

“The decision to retain or release is made by our selection panel” said Bascombe who confirmed that Barbadian wicket-keeper batsman Tevyn Walcott has been retained by the franchise.

Both Greaves and Walcott were selected in last year’s draft and represented the franchise in the 2022-2023 CG United Super50 Cup and West Indies Championship.

Barbados Pride chairman of selectors Henderson Broomes said the dropping of Greaves comes as a surprise.

“His performance for the 2022-2023 season spoke for itself, so it will be a surprise throughout not only Barbados, but throughout the region,” said Broomes who mentioned that the local franchise would be interested in selecting Greaves for this year’s draft.

“Once I speak to my panel, I have no doubt that Justin Greaves will be welcomed back home with open arms.”

In the recent red ball season, Greaves played four matches, scoring 154 runs at an average of 25.66, including one half-century of exactly 50. With the ball Greaves took 16 wickets with an innings best of 6-34. (RW)