Andre Russell’s decision to withdraw from the T/international series against India and play in the global T/20 Canada league is “part of his rehabilitation plans. 

This according to cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave.

Some eyebrows were raised when Russell suited up to take the field for Vancouver Knights on Friday, minutes after West Indies captain Carlos

Brathwaite spoke at a press conference, where he backed Russell for continuing to attempt to take the field for West Indies in spite of his injury. .

Grave likened it to many other athletes competing at a step below the highest level to build-up match fitness.

Despite the support offered by CWI through medical advice and physio consultations, grave was also mindful of Russell being a freelance T/20 cricketer.