Flower to decide on playing Dernbach’s following his close friend’s death

London: Andy Flower must make an emotional decision on Jade Dernbach’s ability to play for England against the West Indies following his close friend Tom Maynard’s death.

It is less than a week since Maynard was killed at the age of 23, yet the Surrey bowler has made it clear he wants to play in today’s one-dayer. Flower and his captain Alastair Cook sat down with Dernbach to consider whether or not the news would prevent him from taking the field. Despite being given the chance to withdraw from the squad in the ­aftermath of Maynard’s death, Dernbach was desperate to remain involved. The withdrawal of Tim Bresnan and Stuart Broad from the squad for a rest has left the road clear for him to play, reports said. If Dernbach does not play, Surrey team-mate Stuart Meaker could benefit. Meaker said: “Jade and I have been given a chance to play for the memory of Tommy Maynard. I hope we can do him proud.” England is looking to wrap up a 3-0 series win. ANI