Lara set for T&T curtain call

A loss for West Indies may well prove the gain of Trinidad and Tobago, as retired legend Brian Lara has announced his availability for the Carib Beer Series in January. The former West Indies captain announced his retirement from internationals earlier this year, but has now declared his availability for domestic selection in the Caribbean.

The news was confirmed during the tea interval of the Pizza Hut Gerry Gomez North/South Classic. President of the Trinidad and Tobago cricket board, Deryck Murray made the announcement. Lara continues to show hunger to play the sport, recently participating in the controversial Indian Cricket League as captain of Mumbai Champs.

“Brian can make a great contribution to Trinidad and Tobago cricket in the future, in terms of the development of the game and in administration,” Murray said.

Murray noted Lara’s participation to be a motivation to his teammates, and that the move would strengthen the side immensely. “Lara’s experience and knowledge will be a great asset to the team,” he said. “We are the champions of the Caribbean, the team to beat and every game will be a final.”

Murray was careful to note, however, that Lara would not prevent younger players from getting exposure and that he would not be given the captaincy. Instead Rayad Emrit will serve in that capacity for the first time with the incumbent Daren Ganga in South Africa on West Indies duty.

Brian Lara, 38, is the highest individual run-scorer in Test cricket – 11,953 – and holds the record for the highest individual score – 400 not out. The Carib Beer Series will be a farewell of sorts, as fans seek to pay last tributes to the legendary batsman.