West Indies retain core squad for crucial ODI tours of Ireland and England
West Indies have named a settled 15-man squad for their upcoming One Day International (ODI) tours of Ireland and England, as they continue preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The touring party is largely unchanged from the side that swept Bangladesh 3-0 in December, with the notable absence of Shimron Hetmyer, who is currently featuring in the Indian Premier League with the Rajasthan Royals. Promising wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew makes a return, bolstering a line-up that continues to show signs of cohesion under captain Shai Hope.
The 31-year-old Barbadian will lead the side into the three-match series against Ireland, beginning May 21 in Dublin, with opening duties expected to fall to the experienced duo of Brandon King and Evin Lewis. Keacy Carty is likely to slot in at number three, while fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde have recovered from injury after missing the Bangladesh series.
Amir Jangoo, who announced himself with a superb 79-ball century on debut in St. Kitts, will also be hoping to secure a regular place in the starting XI.
Currently ranked ninth in the ICC ODI standings, the West Indies are looking to build on the momentum of their recent home series victories over Bangladesh and England, both of which they won in convincing fashion to close out 2024.
“These matches form a critical component towards the 2027 World Cup,” head coach Daren Sammy explained. “There are signs of the team building consistency… and we are creating a culture and mindset which emphasises playing the brand of cricket that is taking us closer to some of our overall objectives.”
CWI have made adjustments to the coaching staff ahead of the tour, with former West Indies fast bowler and 2012 T20 World Cup champion Ravi Rampaul replacing James Franklin as bowling coach. Former Ireland international Kevin O’Brien will also be involved during the Ireland leg of the tour.
Following the Clontarf series, the team will travel to England for three more ODIs starting May 29 at Edgbaston, before a T20I series for which the squad is yet to be announced.
West Indies ODI squad:
Shai Hope (capt), Jewel Andrew, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd
(JC)
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