Drakes replaces Cuffy for Champions Trophy

Following concerns about the fitness of Cameron Cuffy, the West Indies selection panel has named Vasbert Drakes to replace him in the 14-member squad for the International Cricket Council's Champions Trophy limited-overs competition in Sri Lanka later this month.

Cuffy, who was selected in the team to meet the ICC's selection deadline for the competition of August 12, underwent knee surgery six to eight weeks ago, but has not had the benefit of a rehabilitation programme.

Drakes, who has benefitted from a change to the West Indies Cricket Board's selection eligibility rule, has taken Cuffy's place in the side following creditable performances for newly-crowned Red Stripe Bowl champions Barbados.

Sir Vivian Richards, chairman of the selection panel, indicated that concerns developed about Cuffy's fitness during the Red Stripe Bowl.

"Orthopedic physician Dr. Akshai Mansingh had advised the selection panel that Cuffy's knees had responded well to the surgery, but he had not been able to undertake the prescribed rehabilitation programme," remarked Sir Vivian.

He added: "The selection panel fearing further injury from the rigours of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka chose to replace him. I will speak to Cameron and encourage him to undertake physical fitness and conditioning training over the next few weeks, so he can be available for the tour of India."

For Drakes, it will be the first time since he played five limited-overs internationals against Australia and toured England seven years ago that he will be a member of the regional side.

Over the last five years, he has gained considerable experience playing professional cricket in Britain for Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire and Sussex, as well as in South Africa for Border.

The team departs the Caribbean today (Wednesday).

Squad: Carl Hooper (captain), Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Pedro Collins, Corey Collymore, Mervyn Dillon, Vasbert Drakes, Chris Gayle, Ryan Hinds, Wavell Hinds, Ridley Jacobs, Brian Lara, Runako Morton, Mahendra Nagamootoo, and Ramnaresh Sarwan.