West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has hit back at head coach Daren Sammy following controversial remarks regarding the pacer's absence from the current home Test series against Pakistan.

The dispute began when Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced that Joseph would miss the two-match series for "personal reasons." However, Sammy later told reporters that Joseph had actually been selected but chose to turn down the call-up, stating that the player had "declined selection."

Speaking on the Antigua Observer's Good Morning Jojo Sports Show, Joseph expressed his frustration, suggesting that Sammy's words created a misleading narrative about his dedication to the regional side.

"We had a chat, myself and the head coach. I've also had a chat with CWI, and if you realise the statement CWI released said personal reasons. Mr Sammy, being around for a long time, he knows exactly what that statement would have done so, to be honest, I have nothing to say to Mr Sammy in terms of his statement," Joseph stated.

Struggle with Injury and Workload

The 29-year-old revealed that his decision was based on physical limitations and a cautious approach to his return to the game. Joseph spent nearly a year on the sidelines after suffering a second stress fracture in his lower back, which saw him miss crucial tours of India and New Zealand.

After returning to international cricket during the series against Sri Lanka and playing five consecutive ODIs against New Zealand, Joseph felt his body was not yet capable of enduring the rigors of another Test series. “I knew to myself, my body was not ready to go into another Test series. So, the statement in itself is controversial, without context,” he explained.

Professionalism Over Personal Ties

Despite the public disagreement, Joseph maintained that his relationship with Sammy would not interfere with his duties on the field. He emphasized that his primary goal is to represent the West Indies regardless of personal friction.

"I'm a professional, so I'm going to go to work. I am representing the West Indies. I'm not representing Daren Sammy, so for me, I'm neither here nor there in terms of a relationship," Joseph added. "I don't go there to make friends. I go there to work and do a job and represent the people of the West Indies."