Santokie hopes for WI recall after successful CPL

Krishmar Santokie, the Jamaica left-arm seamer, has hopes that his recent performance in the Caribbean Premier League can help him stage a return to the West Indies team. Santokie, who played for Guyana Amazon Warriors, was the highest wicket-taker in the CPL with 16 wickets in nine games at an average of 13.68 and was named player of the tournament for his performances.

The bowler made his T20 debut for West Indies in 2011 against England and played only one match since, against Sri Lanka in March 2012, before losing his place in the squad.

"I remember saying that the CPL would be the launching pad for me to [get back into] the West Indies scene and now I'm eager to see what happens (next)," he said. "It's been nice to reach the T20 summit finally, as I've been aiming for this for a long time and now, I hope it forces me back into international cricket.

"The player-of-the-tournament award has happened in this historic CPL, which is great for me and my career, and I hope it opens up new doors for me with regards to the West Indies, and worldwide."

Slotted as an allrounder early in his career, Santokie's failure to score runs hindered his progress. He has found himself a step behind players like Andre Russell in the pecking order of regional players, even as the allrounder slots in the international team have already been taken by Dwayne Bravo and Darren Sammy. Santokie, however, has had a good year with the ball. He was the third highest wicket-taker in the Caribbean T20 tournament earlier this year and also played for Khulna Royal Bengal in the Bangladesh Premier League, and he now hopes his recent performances can help his selection for the New Zealand tour.

Santokie was grateful for the backing he got from Curtly Ambrose, Guyana's assistant coach, who suggested that the pacer should be recalled to the West Indies side for his consistency and ability to swing the ball.

"I'm glad for that kind of backing. It helps my confidence. I think it's just a matter of time for me and I'll be running out with the West Indian colors again," he said.