Colombo (Sports Desk) The West Indies cricket team has announced its 15-member squad for the home One-Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka national cricket team, with Shai Hope set to lead the side as captain.
The three-match ODI series between Sri Lanka and West Indies will be played at Sabina Park from June 3 to June 8. The series is considered important for both teams, particularly for West Indies, which is aiming to improve its position in the race for direct qualification to the Cricket World Cup.
The announced squad includes the return of several key players. Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has rejoined the ODI side after recovering from a back injury, while spinner Gudakesh Motie has also returned after missing the tour of New Zealand.
Fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales have likewise been included in the squad. However, the West Indies Cricket Board has stated that the workload of the three fast bowlers will be carefully managed.
The 15-member squad consists of Shai Hope (captain), Akeem 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, and Shamar Springer.
Head coach Daren Sammy said that Sri Lanka is a strong and talented ODI team, and therefore West Indies will need to display discipline, effective fielding, responsible batting, and consistent bowling.
He also expressed confidence that West Indies aims to turn its home conditions into a major strength in ODI cricket.
The first match of the series will be played on June 3, the second on June 6, and the third and final ODI on June 8.
It is worth noting that West Indies is currently ranked tenth in the ODI standings and remains outside the direct qualification positions for the World Cup, making this series particularly significant for its campaign.