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Sir Vivian Richards, chairman of the West Indies selection panel, says Vasbert Drakes will be considered for the squad for the seven limited-overs internationals against India that follow the three Tests. The selection panel drafted Drakes into the side for the Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka but did not pick him for the Test series tour to India.

Speaking prior to his departure yesterday for Sri Lanka Sir Viv said: "At the time of his selection, I spoke with Vasbert and made it clear the selection panel felt that the nature of limited-overs cricket and the closeness of the 2003 World Cup meant we needed players like him who could bat and bowl effectively in this form of the game.

"Having reviewed a few of our matches in recent time, the panel felt that our lower batting urgently needed to be addressed in the limited-overs form of the game, and the way Vasbert handles the bat it was felt he would add to our side."

Rev. Wes Hall, president of the West Indies Cricket Board, noted Drakes still had opportunities to play professional cricket in between assignments for the regional team.

"Vasbert is free to gain employment anywhere as long as he has a clause inserted in his contract that he must be released to play for West Indies whenever picked and that by January he makes himself available to either Barbados or the West Indies team," Hall said.

© Barbados Nation