Samuels not surprised by docs' clearance

Marlon Samuels reiterated yesterday he believed he was always fit enough to handle the demands of the imminent World Cup.

And the 22-year-old Jamaican admitted he was "floored" by the news of his withdrawal from the West Indies team two days ahead of their departure for South Africa.

Since his withdrawal from the regional team following a report from Dr Akshai Mansingh on his troublesome left knee, Samuels has been cleared to play immediately after further reports were received from two American-based doctors, Answorth Allen and Michael Mont.

As the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) awaited a response from the International Cricket Council on whether Samuels could be reinstated for the World Cup, he issued a statement that was read yesterday at the Norman Manley International Airport by his agent John Pinnock following their return from the United States.

"At no point did I have any doubt about my fitness or my ability to play at the highest level," Samuels stated.

"The conclusions of Drs Allen and Mont only prove what I knew all along: that I could play as long as I continued to understand the nature of my problem knee.

"I will never do anything to jeopardise my career. I continue to appreciate the honour of representing the West Indies and look forward to being back without much delay."

The statement explained Samuels' controversial actions after learning that he was withdrawn from the original squad.

"That I would be cut from the 15-man squad to the World Cup was never a consideration in my mind. Thus, when Sir Vivian Richards broke the news to me, I was absolutely floored," it stated.

"My decision to play for Jamaica following this news was never to thumb my nose at the selection committee or the WICB.

"Rather, I felt that to sit home and watch cricket while I was in fine playing condition would be unfair to myself, my country and many fans.

"My ultimate decision to withdraw from the Jamaica team 24 hours before the game against the Leeward Islands and travel to New York was prompted by a sincere desire to co-operate with the Rev. Wes Hall and the WICB and also to leave no stone unturned."