West Indies Announce 15-Member Squad for ODI Series Against Bangladesh: Uncapped Wicketkeeper and Capped All-Rounder Included
The West Indies have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match home ODI series against Bangladesh, which is set to begin on Sunday, December 8, at St Kitts & Nevis. The squad sees two notable inclusions: uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo and the return of all-rounder Justin Greaves. Both players have earned their spots due to exceptional performances in domestic cricket, particularly in the recent Super50 ODI tournament.
Uncapped Jangoo and Returning Greaves Earn Call-Ups
Jangoo, who is yet to make his international debut, was one of the standout performers in the Super50 tournament, amassing 446 runs in seven matches, including a century and three fifties, at an average of 89.20. His impressive form with the bat has earned him a well-deserved call-up to the national squad. Greaves, a versatile all-rounder, has been equally dominant, scoring 401 runs in five matches, with three centuries at an outstanding average of 133.66. Greaves has previously represented the West Indies in three Tests and five ODIs, and his all-round ability adds depth to the squad.
Both Jangoo and Greaves were among the top run-scorers in the Super50 tournament, which has given them the chance to break into the national side. Their selection is seen as part of the West Indies' efforts to build a competitive team while keeping an eye on the future, including the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Changes to the Squad
The squad sees two changes from the one that faced England in October. Experienced spinner Hayden Walsh Jr. and young batter Jewel Andrew have been dropped after not featuring in the most recent series against England. Their exclusion opens up space for Jangoo and Greaves to make their mark.
Shai Hope to Lead, Solid Core of Players
Shai Hope will continue to captain the West Indies for the series, with Brandon King named vice-captain. The squad also includes experienced players like Keacy Carty, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, and Evin Lewis, all of whom are expected to contribute significantly to the batting lineup.
The pace attack will be led by Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales, who will look to exploit the conditions in the Caribbean. All-rounders Romario Shepherd, Greaves, and Roston Chase, along with left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, complete the squad, giving coach Daren Sammy plenty of options in all departments.
Building for the Future: World Cup 2027 Focus
West Indies’ white-ball head coach, Daren Sammy, has expressed confidence in his squad, particularly in the versatility and flexibility offered by Greaves and Jangoo. Sammy highlighted that both players are capable of adding depth to the batting unit, with Greaves being able to bat anywhere in the top six and bringing genuine all-round skills to the team. Jangoo’s performances in domestic cricket have shown his adaptability, making him a valuable asset for the squad.
Sammy also mentioned that the series against Bangladesh is part of a larger plan to build towards the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. While the immediate goal is to win the series at home, the West Indies are focused on expanding their pool of players and continuing to build momentum after their recent success against England. “We continue to build towards the main target of the ICC Men’s 50-over World Cup, where we are looking to broaden the pool of players even with the short-term objectives of winning series, especially at home,” Sammy said. He believes the inclusion of Greaves and Jangoo provides flexibility and strength to the squad as they aim for success both in the short term and in the long run.
Full Squad:
- Shai Hope (captain)
- Brandon King (vice-captain)
- Keacy Carty
- Roston Chase
- Matthew Forde
- Justin Greaves
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Amir Jangoo (wicketkeeper)
- Alzarri Joseph
- Shamar Joseph
- Evin Lewis
- Gudakesh Motie
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Jayden Seales
- Romario Shepherd
Fixtures:
- 1st ODI: December 8, St Kitts & Nevis
- 2nd ODI: December 10, St Kitts & Nevis
- 3rd ODI: December 12, St Kitts & Nevis
This ODI series against Bangladesh marks an important step for the West Indies as they continue to develop a squad with an eye on the future, while also striving for success in the present. The inclusion of new faces like Jangoo and Greaves, coupled with the leadership of Shai Hope and the experience of key players, promises an exciting contest against Bangladesh.
