Fast bowler Taylor freed after arrest for assault

West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor escaped starting the New Year in police lock-up after he was arrested, charged and released over an incident at a bar.

Taylor, who had to return home early from the West Indies' recent three-Test tour of Australia with injuries, was charged with using indecent language, assaulting a police officer, improper conduct and resisting arrest by local police in his parish, St. Elizabeth.

According to police sergeant Clifford Evans, Taylor was a patron in a bar when police ordered it to close as required at 11pm.

Taylor, who has played 29 Tests and taken 82 wickets since his West Indies debut, became abusive and matters escalated when police tried to place handcuffs on the cricketer.

Taylor was later released and scheduled to appear in court on January 12.