CWI boss defends Simmons after head coach left bio-secure facility in England

Cricket West Indies (CWI) president, Ricky Skerritt says coach Phil Simmons' job is under no threat following calls by CWI director Conde Riley for him to be sacked after he left the team's bio-secure environment to attend his father in law's funeral on Friday.

Riley, who is president of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), in an email to Skerritt, asked for the immediate removal of Simmons after news circulated that he had left the bio secure venue to attend a funeral.
   
Riley said he had been bombarded with calls from concerned parents and members of the BCA  and sees Simmons’ behaviour is inconsiderate and reckless.

But Skerritt who reappointed Simmons, reiterated that the coach advised them of his engagement well in advance and that proper protocols were followed to have him reintegrated.

Skerritt says the former batsman has nothing to worry about.

Simmons who prides himself as a family man, is unperturbed by what is thrown at him, seeing he had to support his three kids and wife.

President Skerritt conceded that the Trinidadian was within his rights to leave, based on CWI's policy.

The West Indies will now travel to Southampton for next Wednesday's first test of three with Simmons returning negative results.