KEY POINTS:
West Indies skipper Brian Lara hinted that frustration over lack of support was behind his decision to quit international cricket but said he was ready to play a new role in the Caribbean set-up.
The record-breaking batsman unexpectedly announced his retirement yesterday during a post-match press conference following
the World Cup hosts' 99-run victory over Bangladesh in Bridgetown, Barbados - a result which ended a run of four defeats in the Super Eights.
Lara has faced intense criticism over his captaincy and the performance of his side since defeats by Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and South Africa had ruled them out from reaching the semifinals.
The early exit for the hosts means the 37-year-old will play his final game, as captain and player, against England tomorrow at the Kensington Oval.
Asked about the future captain Lara said: "Whoever takes over the team, I think it is important that they get the support, what you see on the surface isn't everything.
"You have got to get the support from the very beginning and a wholehearted support from the board, from the selectors, from the team, from everyone, for the captain to feel comfortable in the position."
When asked if he felt he had not received such wholehearted support, Lara replied: "It is not the time for that sort of criticism, it is done and gone and spilt milk.
"We have just got to move on and focus on Saturday and West Indies cricket in the future."
The only time Lara had lost his cool during a deeply disappointing campaign for his team was when former player and current selector Andy Roberts criticised his team choices for the game against New Zealand.
"I can simply say to Andy Roberts that I did not select this World Cup team - I was not there in the meeting. The team was selected without me. I still go out there and fight my best with the team given to me, with the 15 players," Lara said at the time.
But Lara said he would be interested in an off-the-field role in Caribbean cricket.
"I have unconditional love for West Indies cricket and [am willing] ... to make a contribution outside of just the playing field.
"I have played with some great players in the past and I know that we have got the ingredients here to put it together, on paper, on the practical side and ensure that our cricket grows. Our cricket needs a strong foundation and that is what's missing," he said.
"I think the West Indies players and the administrators will always have unconditional support from myself and it is not time for me to go into hibernation.
"I have played the game, I think I am a student of the game and I have read a lot and know the history of West Indies cricket. I know what it means to the people."
- REUTERS
