Cricketer Sammy eager to play in charity game

West Indies Twenty20 captain Darren Sammy says he is looking forward to participating to the Dominica Relief celebrity charity game set for Saturday in Barbados.

The 31-year-old, who led the Caribbean side to victory in the 2012 ICC World Twenty20, said it was important the region threw its support behind the venture, reports CMC.

"Obviously, as former captain of the Windward Islands, I have close ties with a number of cricketers, administrators and fans from Dominica," said Sammy.

"What has happened to that country, an island I know so well, a country I love - the worst disaster in recent history in the Caribbean, over 30 people dead, still more missing, and hundreds of Dominicans having to evacuate their homes... it's heartbreaking, and it is a call to all of us in this region to work more closely with one other."

Sammy captained the West Indies in 30 of his 38 Tests before retiring from the longer version of the game last year.

He also led the regional side in 51 of his 126 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and played 58 T20s throughout his career.

Sammy said playing in the upcoming game was important to him and hoped the venture would be a successful one.

"I have always dedicated my career to the people of the Caribbean and it would be my privilege to be able to give back with my participation in this upcoming game. God willing, the game will be a great success."

The T20 game will be played at Kensington Oval and will see the likes of Test captain Jason Holder, legendary batsman Brian Lara and ex-Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke also turning out. Money raised will go towards the Dominica Relief Fund.