The West Indies have announced a 16-player roster for the forthcoming five-match T20I series against Australia, which begins on July 20. The roster includes two exciting rookies, Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades, who have received their first T20I call-ups.
Andrew, an 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman, piqued the selectors’ interest with his excellent abilities against spin. He is regarded as one of the region’s finest young talents and will be anxious to make an impression in the shortest format.
Blades, a left-arm seamer who made his ODI debut in December 2024, impressed with his performance during the powerplay. He now has the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities in the T20I format.
Shai Hope will continue to captain the team, which includes veteran players such as Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, and Rovman Powell. Andre Russell, the veteran all-rounder who is set to announce his international retirement shortly, will play in the first two T20Is.
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy emphasised the significance of the series as part of the team’s preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, highlighting the necessity to generate momentum with strong results.
“Our ambitions and strategic plans are focused on winning the T20 World Cup in 2026. We have continuity in the squad from the last series, and as a team, we will continue to fine-tune our style and brand ahead of the World Cup,” Sammy told the ICC.
“Our previous two T20 series at home we were on the wrong end of the results but starting against Australia, we want to regain our form at home as we build momentum into next year’s World Cup with our exciting and dynamic group of players,” said the captain.
West Indies Squad for Australia T20Is:
Shai Hope (C), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell*, Sherfane Rutherford, and Romario Shepherd
India
