Andre Russell: Lack of interest, not money

He was speaking to Britain’s PA News Agency after the Caribbean side was thrashed 3-0 in the recent three-match Test Series in which none of the matches went into the fifth day.

Russell, in England representing the London Spirit, was quoted by the AFP saying: "I don't think it's the money, I don't think money is the issue.

"Based on the amount of T20 and leagues around the world, I think a lot of players are just not interested in playing Tests."

Despite having within its ranks a plethora of top-ranked T20 players the West Indies Test squad on tour of England was vastly inexperienced.

At the same time Russell, and West Indies T20 captain Rovman Powell – both of whom are from Old Harbour here in Jamaica – are among several regional stars who signed lucrative contracts to play in this season’s The Hundred, England’s version of the Indian Premier League.

Since making his international cricket debut more than a decade ago, Russell has only played a single Test match, while compatriots like Powell, Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer are yet to play red-ball cricket which is considered the purest form of the sport by the experts.

"As long as you can do well from contracts outside your nation I think they are going to grab that opportunity but everyone wants to play on the big stage.

"So, if the big stage comes in Test cricket, I know youngsters will be happy to play. I just don't think it's about money or anything like that,” the 36-year-old all-rounder added.

Cricket fans and commentators in the region have long argued that the current crop of West Indies T20 globetrotters have turned their backs on the regional team when it comes to being available for Test cricket selection. It’s a criticism that the players continue to deny.

As for Russell the possibility of him playing Test cricket is no longer possible as physically his body will not cope with the strenuous demands of the game.

"Red-ball cricket is not my cookie, I don't think my body will keep up with Test cricket," said Russell, who had to overcome many career-threatening injuries over the years.

"But those in the team at the moment are fit enough and taking on the challenge.

"They had a few moments in the Test series where they could have turned things around. Playing England at home is always going to be hard for the West Indies."