In a recent move, the West Indies national cricket team made two significant changes to their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, scheduled to take place in St Kitts & Nevis starting December 8. The selections have been influenced by the team's objective of preparing for the 50-over World Cup set to occur in two years.
Spinner Hayden Walsh Jnr and young batter Jewel Andrew have been dropped from the squad that previously secured a 2-1 victory over England. In their place, all-rounder Justin Greaves and uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo have been called up, both of whom impressed with their performances in domestic cricket, particularly as the top two run-scorers in the recent Super50 ODI tournament.
Shai Hope will continue to lead the team, with Brandon King as his deputy. The fast bowling lineup will feature notable players such as Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales.
West Indies coach Daren Sammy expressed excitement about the series, indicating that the selection was made with the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in mind. He emphasised the importance of expanding the player pool while also aiming for success in shorter-term goals, especially in home matches. Sammy praised Greaves for his versatility in the batting order and welcomed Jangoo’s batting capabilities, anticipating that both could significantly contribute if selected during the series.
West Indies squad: Shai Hope (c), Brandon King (vc), Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd
Series schedule:
First ODI: December 8, St Kitts & Nevis
Second ODI: December 10, St Kitts & Nevis
Third ODI: December 12, St Kitts & Nevis