Edwards 'shocked' by Barbados punishment

Kirk Edwards, the West Indies batsman, has said his removal from the Barbados squad for allegedly refusing to sign for some kit came as a shock. Edwards, formerly captain of the team, was disciplined by Barbados manager Hartley Reid last week, ahead of the start of the Regional Super50, in a move criticised by the West Indies Players' Association.

"I was never made aware that I have any behavioural problems," Edwards was quoted as saying by Jamaica Today. "I just had a good report from the A team, specifically the West Indies Cricket Board president, and they all gave good feedback on me and nobody ever said to me: 'Well Kirk, we have a problem with your behaviour or what not'.

"So it came over to me like a shock at first. But I've been through many things like this... so I said to myself things do happen, so get over it and move on."

Edwards was replaced as captain by Kevin Stoute for the domestic one-day tournament, being held in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as being removed from the four-day squad, despite leading Barbados to the title in 2012-13. He reportedly refused to sign for kit - two sets of shirts and trousers that must last for two years, with players bearing the cost of replacement - on the grounds that it was substandard.

Edwards was praised for his captaincy on the West Indies A tour of India and subsequently made a return to the Test and one-day teams in New Zealand. Since making his debut in 2011, Edwards has played 12 Tests and 11 ODIs, serving for a period as West Indies vice-captain.

"It is all about strong leadership," Edwards said of his stance. "The reason for leading is that you have to have the ability to stand up to [and for] your players. If you aren't, then you can't make that happen, that is why then you won't be a good leader. So I am proud of how I go about my business."