Cricket West Indies (CWI) has named a strong 15-member squad for their upcoming six-match ODI tour, featuring three matches each against Ireland and England. The tour, which begins on May 21 in Dublin and concludes on June 3 in England, is a part of the West Indies’ preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The squad remains largely unchanged from the group that secured a series win over England and Bangladesh at the end of 2024, with Shai Hope retaining his position as captain. The opening pair is expected to feature Brandon King and Evin Lewis, while Keacy Carty slots in at No. 3. Youngster Jewel Andrew, who impressed at the ICC Under-19 World Cup, also earned a call-up.
Shimron Hetmyer, who is currently featuring in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for the Rajasthan Royals, has been sidelined. Meanwhile, fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Matthew Forde return to the squad after missing the Bangladesh series due to fitness concerns. Left-handed batter Amir Jangoo will be pushing for a place in the XI following a stunning hundred on debut last December.
The bowling coach is Ravi Rampaul.
The tour’s importance was highlighted by head coach Daren Sammy, who hopes to assemble a strong team for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
“After the series sweep against Bangladesh and the victory over England late last year, there are indications that the team is gaining consistency in these games, which are crucial for the 2027 World Cup. In a statement released by Cricket West Indies, he said, “We anticipate that the conditions will be difficult, but we are fostering a culture and mentality that prioritise playing the style of cricket that is bringing us closer to some of our overarching goals.”
The board also disclosed significant adjustments to the coaching arrangement. James Franklin is replaced as bowling coach by Ravi Rampaul, a former West Indies pacer and 2012 T20 World Cup champion. Kevin O’Brien, a former all-rounder for Ireland, will also be part of the coaching team during the tour’s Ireland stop.
Before the Caribbean team heads to England for ODIs beginning on May 29 at Edgbaston, a three-match series against Ireland will be played at Dublin’s Clontarf Cricket Club from May 21 to May 25. The squad is aiming for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup and is currently rated ninth in the ICC ODI rankings.
India
