West Indies name strong squad for Ireland and England ODIs with eye on 2027 World Cup qualification
The West Indies have unveiled a largely familiar 15-member squad for their upcoming ODI tours of Ireland and England, set to begin later this month. The selection signals continuity in their push toward securing a spot in the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, with only one change from the unit that blanked Bangladesh 3-0 in December 2024.
Shimron Hetmyer, currently plying his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, is a notable omission. In his place, young Jewel Andrew earns a recall, rejoining the side after being on the fringes earlier in the year.
Shai Hope at the helm
Shai Hope continues to hold the reins as captain, with the experienced Brandon King and power-hitter Evin Lewis expected to open the innings. Keacy Carty is likely to anchor the top order at No. 3, bringing stability and flexibility to the lineup.
West Indies’ fast-bowling stocks have received a boost with the return of Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde, both of whom missed the Bangladesh series due to injury concerns. Their comeback adds much-needed depth and pace to the bowling department.
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Amir Jangoo keep his place in the squad
One of the most exciting inclusions is that of wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo, who made headlines with a dazzling 79-ball century on debut against Bangladesh. His inclusion offers the Caribbean side an aggressive middle-order option and a dependable gloveman.
With the ODI series against Ireland beginning on May 21 at Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin, West Indies find themselves ranked ninth in the ICC ODI standings. Having ended 2024 on a high with ODI series victories over England and Bangladesh, they will aim to build momentum and cement their path to direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa and Zimbabwe.
After three ODIs in Ireland, the Windies will shift focus to England, where they are scheduled to play another three-match ODI series starting May 29 at Edgbaston. A T20I leg will follow, although the squad for that segment of the tour is yet to be announced.
West Indies ODI squad for Ireland and England tour:
Shai Hope (captain), 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
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