West Indies Unveils Squad for Upcoming T20I Series Against Afghanistan
West Indies Announces T20I Squad for Afghanistan Series
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has revealed its 16-member team for the forthcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. This series is crucial for their preparations leading up to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to commence on February 7, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Details of the Afghanistan Series
The matches will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE starting January 19. With the regular T20I captain Shai Hope unavailable due to his participation in the ongoing SA20 tournament, Brandon King will step in as the acting captain. King has prior experience in leading the West Indies in T20 internationals, including a home series against South Africa earlier in 2024.
Squad Changes: New Faces and Rested Players
A significant addition to the squad is Quentin Sampson, who was named Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League and is set to make his international debut. He takes the place of Rovman Powell, who, along with Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd, has been rested as part of the team's strategy for managing player workloads. Evin Lewis and Shamar Joseph are also back in the squad after successfully completing their return-to-play protocols following injuries.
Injury Updates
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who has been recovering from an injury sustained late in 2025, has not been included in this squad. His recovery will be closely monitored as the team prepares for the T20 World Cup.
Coach's Insights on World Cup Readiness
Head coach Daren Sammy highlighted the significance of competitive matches in subcontinental conditions as the West Indies finalize their team combinations and evaluate returning players ahead of the global tournament. Sammy stated, "This series offers a crucial opportunity to refine our preparations and boost our confidence before the T20 World Cup," as reported by the ICC.
West Indies T20I Squad for Afghanistan
The West Indies T20I squad for the series against Afghanistan includes: Brandon King (captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Khary Pierre, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer, and Shimron Hetmyer.