Xavier Marshall - United States - Batsman

Xavier Marshall's story is yet another case of promise unfulfilled. He began as a bright batsman, making waves in the Under-19 circuit. Marshall's efforts were recognized when he was named as the West Indies Youth cricketer of the Year in 2005.

He made his ODI and Test debuts the same year but came up woefully short of translating his domestic success onto the biggest stage. Marshall was axed soon after but upon his come back, he slammed an undefeated 157 against Canada, which was studded with 11 fours and 12 maximums, eclipsing the record of most sixes in an ODI innings that was then jointly held by the Asian pair of Shahid Afridi and Sanath Jayasuriya. Though the knock came against minnows, Marshall's clean hitting caught the eye. It seemed that he was ready to drive West Indies cricket forward.

Unfortunately, he fell into the inconsistency cocoon again with the booming promise going bust. He made some fleeting appearances in T20Is and Tests too before being dumped. Marshall was notorious for his volatile temperament and indiscreet disposition right from his younger days.

In May 2006 during the Under 19 World Cup, he was reprimanded for undisclosed reasons. Around 2 years later he was displaced from the jackpot Standford Super series for reportedly using marijuana.

The last time he stepped on the international field, Marshall copped a golden duck in the semi-final of the 2009 T20 Cup in London.

By Deivarayan Muthu