Shepherd welcomes IPL interest
Romario Shepherd has his eyes firmly set on representing the West Indies the T20I series against England, but he will welcome interest from an Indian Premier League franchise in the upcoming Mega Auction in February.
The 27-year-old Guyana all-rounder has been in the IPL auction during the last three years, but he is yet to be signed by any team.
Shepherd had a brilliant 2021 and showed his prowess with the bat during the West Indies’ one-run loss to England on Sunday at Kensington Oval.
He smashed 44 not out from 28 balls and featured in an unbroken 72-run partnership with Akeal Hosein (44 off.16 balls).
Shepherd told ESPNCricinfo that he is focused on his stint with the West Indies T20 team.
“Eventually, if an IPL contract comes, that would be great for me. I’m not saying that I don’t think about it – I do think about it, but I try not to think about it during a game, I just focus on wherever the game is and trying to get us out of a situation,” Shepherd said.
The Guyana all-rounder said he is looking forward to a stint with the IPL if it comes.
“It’s a great platform. For any youngster, it’s their dream to go to the IPL and I’m no different. I’m trying my best to get myself in there, but at the same time trying to win a series here. It’s something that I’ve dreamed about for a very long time,” Shepherd said.
The West Indies will play England in the third T20I on Wednesday at Kensington Oval.
The Indian Premier League Auction is set for 12-13 February 2022.
A total of 1,214 players have registered for the Auction, with 270 capped players, 903 uncapped players, and 41 players from associate nations.
A total of 318 overseas players will join 896 Indian players in the Auction.
Photo: Romario Shepherd goes for a big hit during the 2nd T20I against England at Kensington Oval on Sunday. (Photo credit – CWI Media)
Vidia Ramphal