Simmons set to replace injured Fletcher

Trinidad and Tobago’s Lendl Simmons is set to join the West Indies for their crucial ICC World Twenty20 semi-final against hosts India. Simmons is expected to replace Grenadian batsman Andre Fletcher who injured his hamstring in yesterday’s six-run loss to Afghanistan.

The right-handed Simmons was initally named in the Windies World Cup squad but was one of many Trinidadians (Sunil Narine, Darren Bravo and Kieron Pollard) who pulled out for various reasons.

Simmons had cited a back injury for withdrawing from the squad but has recovered enough to boost the regional side.

The 31-year-old opening batsman was scheduled to fly to India anyway for the Indian Premier League (IPL) which bowls off from April 9 - May 29.

Newsday understands Simmons left Trinidad immediately yesterday upon getting the call-up.

Simmons is regarded as one of the top Twenty20 batsmen in the world with an average of 31.18 from 165 matches. His T20 International batting average is 25.36.

Last year, Simmons was snapped up by the stuttering Mumbai Indians and inspired them alongside Kieron Pollard to the IPL title. The Windies will be hoping he can provide some added experience on Indian soil alongside Chris Gayle at the top.