India, July 31 -- West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph has finally addressed the circumstances surrounding his absence from the ongoing home Test series against Pakistan, pushing back against comments from head coach Daren Sammy about his availability. Earlier, when Cricket West Indies announced the squad for the two-match series, the board stated that Joseph would miss the assignment due to personal reasons.

However, a day later, coach Sammy told the media that the fast bowler had been selected but had chosen not to accept the call-up, describing the situation as one where Joseph had "declined selection."

Joseph has now offered his side of the story, saying the coach's remarks did not fully reflect the circumstances behind his decision.

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