USA Cricket has decided to take disciplinary action against Aaron Jones after he opted to play for the St. Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) instead of representing the USA in the World Cup League 2 (WCL-2) series. Jones, who has West Indian roots, was able to join the CPL without needing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from USA Cricket.
CPL Earnings Come at a Cost for Jones
Despite warnings from the board that missing the tri-series against the UAE and Namibia in September-October would have repercussions, Jones disregarded the caution. However, his absence didn’t hinder the USA team, as they won 7 out of 8 matches and climbed to 2nd place in the WCL-2 standings.
In the CPL, Jones featured in only six matches and batted three times, but his standout performance came in the final, where he scored an unbeaten 48 to help St. Lucia Kings secure the title. Now, as the USA prepares for a crucial tri-series against Nepal and Scotland, the board feels they no longer require Jones.
Jones has already struggled in the recent series against Nepal, managing just 23 runs across three matches. Despite USA’s impressive run in the T20 World Cup 2024, including a victory over Pakistan and reaching the Super 8, their 0-3 defeat to Nepal was a setback. Although Jones isn’t directly blamed for the defeat, his decision to prioritise the CPL over national duties may cost him his spot on the team.