West Indies Announce ODI Squad for Sri Lanka Series with Key Player Returns
West Indies ODI Squad Announcement
The West Indies cricket team has revealed a 15-member squad for their upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka. The matches are set to take place at Sabina Park in Jamaica from June 3 to June 8. Shai Hope will continue to captain the team, which sees the return of several important players.
Notable Returns to the Squad
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is making his return to the ODI team for the first time since last year's tour of Australia, having recovered from a back injury that kept him out since July 2025. Spinner Gudakesh Motie is also back after missing the New Zealand tour in November. Additionally, pace bowlers Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales have been included, with Cricket West Indies indicating that their workloads will be closely monitored.
Shimron Hetmyer is another significant addition, having been recalled to the ODI squad after an impressive performance at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this year, where he scored 248 runs at an average of 41.33 and a strike rate of 186.46. Hetmyer last played ODIs against England in June 2025 and missed subsequent series against Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. He is expected to join the squad before the third ODI.
From the previous squad that toured New Zealand, Alick Athanaze, Johann Layne, Khary Pierre, and Romario Shepherd have been omitted.
Coach Daren Sammy's Insights
Head coach Daren Sammy expressed confidence in the team's recent home success as they prepare to face a disciplined Sri Lankan side. He stated, "Sri Lanka is a disciplined and skilled ODI unit, particularly in conditions that require patience and smart cricket."
"This series is about establishing our standards, maintaining intensity in the field, clarity with the bat, and consistency with the ball. We aim to play fearless yet intelligent cricket and continue to build the identity we envision for West Indies cricket," he added.
Sammy emphasized the need for collective performances as the West Indies strive to make their home ground a stronghold in ODI cricket. He remarked, "In our quest to make home a fortress in ODI cricket, I want the team to consistently win moments rather than depend on individual brilliance, which we have emphasized over the last 18 months."
Focus on World Cup 2027 Qualification
This series is crucial for the West Indies as they aim for automatic qualification for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Currently ranked 10th in the ODI standings, they are outside the automatic qualification spots, with only the top eight teams, along with hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, securing direct entry through the rankings.
Despite recent challenges away from home, including five losses in their last six ODIs, the West Indies have gained significant momentum in Caribbean conditions, having won their last four ODI series at home since 2023.
West Indies Squad Overview
The squad includes: Shai Hope (c), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Shamar Springer.