West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been handed a two-match suspension after a dramatic outburst during Wednesday’s ODI against England, which led to him storming off the field. Cricket West Indies (CWI) imposed the ban, citing Joseph’s actions as “conduct falling short of CWI’s standards of professionalism."

The incident took place during the series-clinching match at Kensington Oval in Barbados, shortly after Joseph claimed the wicket of Jordan Cox in the fourth over. In what appeared to be a protest against the field set by West Indies captain Shai Hope, Joseph marched off the pitch, leaving his team temporarily reduced to just 10 players.

Joseph returned to the field in the sixth over, but the damage had been done. CWI’s director of cricket, Miles Bascombe, condemned the behaviour, emphasizing that it did not align with the values upheld by the organization.

“Alzarri’s behavior did not align with the core values that Cricket West Indies upholds," Bascombe said in an official statement. "Such conduct cannot be overlooked, and we have taken decisive action to ensure the gravity of the situation is fully acknowledged."

In response to the ban, Joseph expressed regret for his actions, admitting that his passion had gotten the better of him.

"I apologize for my actions. My passion got the best of me," Joseph stated.

"I have personally apologized to captain Shai Hope and my teammates and management. I also extend my sincerest apologies to the West Indies fans. I understand that even a brief lapse in judgment can have a far-reaching impact, and I deeply regret any disappointment caused," he added.